What does virtuosos mean?
“Virtuosos” is the regular plural of “virtuoso,” a noun for a person of exceptional skill and accomplishment. Its best-known use is for musicians, especially instrumentalists: a violin virtuoso or piano virtuoso is not merely competent but displays outstanding technical mastery. The word can also be applied more broadly to a specialist in any demanding field, though such uses often sound more evaluative and formal. “Virtuoso” carries strong connotations of excellence, flair, and command of technique rather than simple experience or moderate ability. The plural normally has the sound of a voiced z. The word appears in criticism, biographies, and descriptions of performances in both British and American English. Although “virtuoso” comes through Italian and ultimately relates to the idea of virtue, its established English meaning emphasizes outstanding artistic or professional achievement.
noun (plural)Virtuosos are people of exceptional skill and accomplishment, especially musicians noted for technical mastery. The term can also refer more broadly to outstanding experts in a demanding field.
- An exceptionally accomplished and technically skilled musician or performer.
- An outstanding expert or specialist in a demanding field.
"The two virtuosos joined forces for an unforgettable performance."
"The young violinist's command of her instrument impressed critics, who quickly called her a virtuoso."
"He was a programming virtuoso whose elegant solutions transformed an otherwise cumbersome system."
The regular plural is “virtuosos”; “virtuosoes” is an established but less common alternative.
"Two virtuosos collaborated on the new composition."
The Italian original of “virtuoso” could mean “virtuous” as well as “accomplished,” linking excellence of character with excellence of skill.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of virtuosos
The word entered English from the Italian virtuoso, a noun and adjective derived from Latin virtuosus, meaning “virtuous, skilled, or accomplished,” with Latin virtus meaning “virtue” and “excellence.” English words such as virtuous and virtue share that Latin source, while virtual ultimately traces through Medieval Latin to the same Latin word. In English, virtuosos became especially associated with musicians of outstanding technical ability.
Related word forms
How virtuosos is actually used
The term is strongly complimentary and often sounds formal, celebratory, or promotional. It implies not merely competence but exceptional command, brilliance, or flair, and it is used in both British and American English.
Easily confused with virtuosos
A virtuoso is exceptionally skilled in an activity, whereas a virtuous person is morally upright or guided by sound principles.
A virtuoso is an exceptionally accomplished person, while a virtual object or experience exists in effect or simulation rather than in physical form.