What does vocal mean?
Vocal is most often used as an adjective meaning connected with the voice or singing, as in a vocal performance or vocal cords. It also commonly describes a person who expresses opinions loudly, publicly, or persistently, often in support of or opposition to something. In that sense, it can suggest confidence and determination, but it may also carry a slightly critical tone when applied to frequent public criticism. As a noun, vocal refers to a voice, a singer, or a sung part in a musical performance, especially in British usage. The plural vocals is common for the sung parts of a song. Vocal is also occasionally used as an informal verb meaning to voice concerns or complaints. The word comes from Latin vocalis, meaning “of the voice” or “having a voice,” and its modern range reflects both literal associations with speech and sound and figurative associations with speaking out.
Relating to the voice, singing, or the production of sound; or expressing an opinion, criticism, or demand loudly and publicly.
"The proposal met vocal opposition from several members."
The figurative sense often implies that someone is repeatedly or conspicuously expressing a position.
A person's singing voice, a vocal performance, or a singer, especially in a musical context.
"She has a warm, expressive vocal."
In musical contexts, the plural vocals is more common and refers to the sung parts of a performance.
To express an opinion, complaint, or demand aloud or publicly.
"Residents vocalized their concerns at the council meeting."
This use is relatively uncommon and is more informal than vocalize in formal writing.
The plural is especially common in music, referring to the sung parts of a performance.
"The band added backup vocals to the final track."
From the Latin for “of the voice,” vocal grew into a word for being heard—and being heard loudly.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does vocal come from?
Vocal comes from Latin vocalis, an adjective meaning “of the voice” or “vocal,” derived from vox, meaning “voice.” The Latin root also underlies words such as vocation, avocation, convocation, and evocative, which relate to calling, invoking, or stimulating. In English, vocal developed both a literal sense connected with the voice and singing and a figurative sense of expressing opinions forcefully or publicly.
Related word forms
How vocal is actually used
As an adjective, vocal often suggests that a view is expressed publicly, forcefully, or repeatedly; it can sometimes sound critical or disapproving. As a noun, it is especially common in musical contexts, where the plural vocals usually refers to sung parts rather than speaking voices.
Easily confused with vocal
Vocal means relating to the voice or to being outspoken, whereas vocalic means specifically relating to vowels or vowel sounds.