Definition

A type of male singer who has a high voice that can sing notes higher than a typical tenor.

Example

The countertenor performed beautifully in the opera, impressing the audience with his high notes.

Conversation

Have you ever heard a countertenor sing live?

No, I haven't! What's a countertenor?

It's an adult male voice that sings in a higher range, kind of like an alto.

That sounds interesting! I'd love to hear one perform.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Countertenor → It is formed from "counter-" (from Latin "contra", meaning against or opposite) and "tenor" (from Latin "tenere", meaning to hold). The term refers to a male singer who sings in a range that is typically opposite to that of a tenor, often in a higher vocal range.

Memory Tip

Think of 'counter-' meaning 'opposite' and 'tenor' meaning 'to hold' — a countertenor holds a vocal range that is opposite to the typical tenor.

Visually Confused Words