1. (n.) A species of musical recitation in which the words are delivered in a manner resembling that of ordinary declamation; also, a piece of music intended for such recitation; -- opposed to melisma.

2. (a.) of or pertaining to recitation; intended for musical recitation or declamation; in the style or manner of recitative.

air aria buffa aria cantabile aria da capo aria da chiesa aria di bravura aria di coloratura aria fugata aria parlante arietta arioso bravura cantabile canto cantus coloratura descant ditty hymn lay lied line measure melodia melodic line melody note recitative refrain solo solo part song soprano part strain treble tune