Meaning & use

sonatas

noun·Advanced

Last updated

Musical compositions for one or a few instruments, typically in several movements with contrasting rhythms and moods.

See it in a sentence

The pianist performed two Beethoven sonatas at the recital.

She has been practicing violin sonatas for her upcoming exam.

A note on using this word

The term comes from the Italian 'sonare,' meaning 'to sound,' distinguishing sonatas, which are played, from cantatas, which are sung.

Words with a similar meaning

compositions

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