jazz singer

American

noun

a singer whose vocal technique is similar to that of a musical instrument, and whose singing has a strong jazz feeling, chiefly imparted through phrasing, melodic improvisation, and rhythmic subtlety.

Etymology

Origin of jazz singer

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In 1927 the studios were stunned by the success of “The Jazz Singer,” the first “talkie,” and the silent-film business quickly collapsed.

From The Wall Street Journal

Her chances look slim, though, with stronger albums by Lady Gaga, Elton John & Brandi Carlile, and Icelandic jazz singer Laufey all in the running.

From BBC

Famous for her huge vocal range and wide musical repertoire, Dame Cleo Laine remains the UK's most famous jazz singer.

From BBC

Jazz singer Billie van der Westhuizen started using Vinted about six months ago to sell clothes and shoes she hadn't worn for ages.

From BBC

Diana Ross made an auspicious feature acting debut in this sprawling biopic about the hardships and triumphs of celebrated jazz singer Billie Holiday.

From Los Angeles Times

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023