What does singer mean?
A singer is a person who sings, usually as a professional musical performer. The term applies across many genres, from pop and folk to opera, jazz, and traditional music, and is often used to identify a featured or lead vocalist. In conversation, “singer” may carry a sense of admiration, as in “a gifted singer,” while “vocalist” is sometimes preferred in more technical or formal descriptions of musical performers. The word can also be used more broadly to refer to someone whose singing ability is notable, without implying that they perform publicly. In phrases such as “lead singer,” “opera singer,” and “a pop singer,” it clearly identifies a person by their vocal role or musical genre.
nounA person who sings, especially one who sings professionally as a musician or vocal performer.
- A person who sings, especially as a professional or performing artist.
"The singer captivated the audience with her powerful voice."
"The singer performed a new song at the festival."
"She became famous as a singer in the 1990s."
The plural form is used when referring to more than one person who sings.
"The two singers performed together on the final track."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does singer come from?
The English word “singer” comes through Old French from Latin, where the related verb cantare meant “to sing” or “to chant.” The same Latin root also underlies English words such as “chant,” “cantor,” and “cantata.” Over time, the meaning developed from simply describing a person who sings to commonly referring to a professional vocal performer.
Related word forms
How singer is actually used
The word is used in British and US English and commonly refers to a professional vocal performer, although it can also describe anyone who sings.