libretto

noun

li·​bret·​to lə-ˈbre-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce libretto (audio)
plural librettos or libretti lə-ˈbre-(ˌ)tē How to pronounce libretto (audio)
1
: the text of a work (such as an opera) for the musical theater
2
: the book containing a libretto

Examples of libretto in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Bardo would also be a cinch to adapt because parts of this book already resemble a libretto. — Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 10 June 2026 But, beginning next month, the venue will begin to build a reputation as a place for something beyond arias and librettos. — Cary Darling, Houston Chronicle, 26 Feb. 2026 Beneath the dry legal verbiage, the timeline described in the 28-page complaint reads almost like the libretto of a five-act opera. — Mary Carole McCauley, Chicago Tribune, 12 June 2026 In 1707, Bembo completed her composition of a new musical score for Buti’s opera libretto. — Claire Fontijn, The Conversation, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for libretto

Word History

Etymology

Italian, diminutive of libro book, from Latin libr-, liber

First Known Use

1742, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of libretto was in 1742

Rhymes for libretto

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Browse Nearby Words

librettist
libretto
Libreville
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Cite this Entry

“Libretto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/libretto. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

libretto

noun
li·​bret·​to lə-ˈbret-ō How to pronounce libretto (audio)
plural librettos or libretti -ē How to pronounce libretto (audio)
: the text of an opera or musical

More from Merriam-Webster on libretto

Nglish: Translation of libretto for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about libretto

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