lyric

[/ˈlɪrɪk/]
noun/adjectivepl: lyrics
letra
1. The words of a song, as opposed to the music or melody
The lyric of this song is very poetic and moving.
A letra desta música é muito poética e tocante.
2. A short poem or verse expressing personal emotion, often songlike in quality
She wrote a beautiful lyric about lost love.
Ela escreveu uma letra linda sobre amor perdido.
3. Adjective: Of or relating to poetry expressing personal emotion; meant to be sung
The lyric quality of the poem made it perfect for musical adaptation.
A qualidade lírica do poema o tornou perfeito para adaptação musical.
In Brazilian culture, especially in music genres like samba, bossa nova, and forró, the lyrics (letras) are deeply valued as expressions of emotion, social commentary, and storytelling. The term 'letrista' (lyricist) holds significant prestige in Brazilian music. In the USA, rap and hip-hop have elevated the status of lyrics as an art form equivalent to poetry.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
versestanzapoemsong wordscomposition
Antonyms / Antônimos
prosemelodyinstrumental

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
letra
Most common term for song lyrics and poetic verses
Rio de Janeiro
letra
Standard usage; also used in samba and bossa nova contexts
São Paulo
letra
Standard usage in music industry and cultural contexts
Portugal
letra/lírica
Letra for song words; lírica more commonly used for poetic expression

Related Words

lyricistlyricslyricismballadversestanzasong

Related Idioms & Phrases

read between the lyrics
know the lyrics by heart
write lyrics for someone
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