lyrics

[/ˈlɪrɪks/]
nounpl: lyrics (same form)
letra
1. The words of a song, especially considered as a literary work
The lyrics of that song are very poetic and meaningful.
A letra dessa música é muito poética e significativa.
2. Words written to be sung to a melody or tune
She wrote the lyrics while her brother composed the music.
Ela escreveu a letra enquanto seu irmão compôs a música.
3. The text or words of a musical composition
I looked up the lyrics online because I couldn't understand what the singer was saying.
Procurei a letra online porque não conseguia entender o que a cantora estava dizendo.
In Brazilian culture, 'letra' is essential to understanding music genres like samba, forró, and bossa nova, where poetic lyrics are often as important as the melody. In the USA, lyrics have become increasingly important in music criticism and analysis, with artists often being recognized for their lyrical content and storytelling ability.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
wordsversestextcomposition
Antonyms / Antônimos
melodymusicinstrumental

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
letra
Most common term used throughout Brazil for song lyrics
São Paulo
letra
Standard usage; also used in music industry contexts
Rio de Janeiro
letra
Common usage in samba and bossa nova contexts
Portugal
letra
Same translation used; also sometimes 'poema' or 'texto' in formal contexts

Related Words

songversechorusmelodymusiccomposersongwriter

Related Idioms & Phrases

read the lyrics
write lyrics
the lyrics don't match the melody
memorable lyrics
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