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Canto - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A canto is a division within a long poem, similar to a chapter in a book. It helps organize the poem into manageable sections, often used in epic poetry like Dante’s Divine Comedy.

canto

/ˈkæn.toʊ/ /ˈkæn.təʊ/

Definition:

A division of a long poem, often one of the main sections in an epic.

Synonyms:

section, part, division, segment

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

whole, entirety

Common Collocations:

epic canto, first canto, final canto, poetic canto

Derivatives:

cantos, canticle

Usage Tips:

Use "canto" to refer to a major section of a lengthy poem, especially in classical or epic works.

Common Phrases:

opening canto, closing canto, Dante's canto

Etymology:

From Italian "canto" (song), derived from Latin "cantus" (singing).

Examples:

  • 1. She recited the first canto of the epic poem beautifully.
  • 2. Each canto in the book explores a different theme.
  • 3. The final canto concludes the hero’s journey dramatically.
  • 4. Dante’s *Inferno* is divided into 34 cantos.

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