Definition of "castrato" in English

noun

1. A male who has been castrated, especially a male whose testicles have been removed before puberty in order to retain his boyish voice.

2. (music) A male soprano or alto voice produced by castration of the treble singer before puberty, intended to conserve his voice; the singer.

adjective

1. (literally) Castrated; especially castrated prepubescently.

2. Having, using or containing the voice of a castrato (noun).

3. Originally composed for a castrato.

   • Nowadays, either women or countertenors take the castrato roles.