Canorous

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/kəˈnɔːrəs/

Definitions

• 1. Having a rich, melodious, or sweet sound; resonant.
• 2. (Of a voice or music) full of harmonious tones.

Usage Examples

• The canorous notes of the piano echoed through the hall, enchanting everyone who listened.
• The bird’s canorous song was a sign of the coming spring.
• Her canorous voice captivated the audience during the performance.

Etymology

The word "canorous" comes from the Latin word "canorus," meaning "musical" or "melodious," which itself derives from "canor," meaning "song" or "melody." The root "can-" is related to singing or the act of making musical sounds.

Synonyms

• Melodious
• Resonant
• Harmonious
• Sonorous
• Euphonic

Antonyms

• Discordant
• Raucous
• Unmelodious
• Grating
• Off-key

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "canorous" may vary depending on the accent and regional dialects. In some regions, the first syllable may be stressed more strongly, while in others, the stress may be more evenly distributed.

Historical Usage

The term "canorous" has been used since the 16th century to describe things that were melodious or sweet-sounding, particularly in reference to music and voices. It was often used in literary works to describe the beauty of songs and sounds in nature.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, "canorous" is used to praise the sound of nature or music. For instance, in classical music, a canorous performance is one where the musician achieves a harmonious, sweet, and resonant sound. In literature, canorous descriptions are often used to enhance the beauty of a scene or setting.

More Information

The word "canorous" is frequently used in both formal and poetic contexts. It evokes a sense of harmony, beauty, and resonance. As such, it is often employed to describe anything that produces a pleasing sound, including birdsong, musical instruments, or even the human voice in a poetic or literary sense.