ritornello
/ri.torˈnɛl.lo/
The Italian word for the chorus of a song (the part repeated between verses) is ritornello.
ritornello refers specifically to a musical refrain or the part of a song that is repeated after each verse.
Meaning: part of a song repeated between verses (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word ritornello is a diminutive of ritorno (return), literally meaning 'little return'.
Which one should you use?
It is important to distinguish between different types of a 'chorus'. While ritornello refers to the repeated part of a song, the word coro is used to refer to a group of singers performing together.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of ritornello is ritornelli.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the third syllable: /ri.torˈnɛl.lo/.
Did you know?
- In some Italian dialects, a ritornello can metaphorically refer to a repetitive or boring argument that someone keeps bringing up.
- The Italian word coro is a direct relative of the English word 'choreography', as both derive from the Greek word for a group of dancers and singers.
- While ritornello means 'chorus', the word coro is used for the physical area of a church where the choir sits.
Examples in context
- Il coro ha cantato una magnifica sinfonia durante il concerto.The chorus sang a magnificent symphony during the concert.
- I ragazzi hanno formato una compagine corale per esibirsi al festival.The kids formed a chorus to perform at the festival.
- Oggi il coro si esibirà nella chiesa del paese.Today the chorus will perform in the town church.
- Il ritornello di questa canzone è molto orecchiabile.The chorus of this song is very catchy.
- Dobbiamo imparare bene il ritornello prima del concerto.We need to learn the chorus well before the concert.
- Non ricordo il ritornello di quel brano.I don't remember the chorus of that track.
Example conversation
Alessandro and Sofia are practicing a song together at home.
- AlessandroSofia, come va il ritornello?Sofia, how is the chorus going?
- SofiaÈ un po' difficile da cantare.It is a bit difficult to sing.
- AlessandroProviamo ancora una volta il ritornello.Let's try the chorus one more time.
- SofiaVa bene, Alessandro, ci riproviamo.Okay, Alessandro, let's try again.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ritornello, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
