divertimento: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very lowFormal, technical (musicology/history of music), literary
Quick answer
What does “divertimento” mean?
A light, entertaining musical composition, typically in multiple movements for a small ensemble, originating in the 18th century.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A light, entertaining musical composition, typically in multiple movements for a small ensemble, originating in the 18th century.
Any lighthearted diversion, amusement, or pastime, though this usage is rare and chiefly metaphorical.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning, spelling, or pronunciation. Usage is equally rare and specialised in both varieties.
Connotations
Carries strong connotations of 18th-century aristocratic or courtly entertainment, sophistication, and the music of Mozart or Haydn.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language. Slightly more likely to be encountered in academic or high-culture contexts in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “divertimento” in a Sentence
divertimento in [key]divertimento for [instrument(s)]divertimento by [composer]divertimento, K. [catalogue number]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in music history, theory, and criticism to categorise and discuss 18th-century instrumental works.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
The primary context; a precise term for a genre of classical chamber music.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “divertimento”
- Misspelling as 'divertemento' or 'divertiment'.
- Incorrect stress on the first or second syllable.
- Using it as a general synonym for 'fun' or 'diversion' in non-musical contexts.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a very low-frequency, specialised term used almost exclusively in the context of classical music history and criticism.
This would be incorrect and sound very affected. While its Italian root means 'diversion,' in English it is a fixed term for a specific musical genre. Use 'diversion' or 'pastime' instead for the general meaning.
A divertimento is typically lighter, shorter, and less formally structured than a symphony. It was designed for social entertainment, often outdoors or at parties, whereas the symphony was a more serious concert hall form.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Joseph Haydn are the most renowned composers of this genre. Mozart's 'Salzburg Symphonies' (K. 136-138) are sometimes classified as divertimenti.
A light, entertaining musical composition, typically in multiple movements for a small ensemble, originating in the 18th century.
Divertimento is usually formal, technical (musicology/history of music), literary in register.
Divertimento: in British English it is pronounced /dɪˌvɜːtɪˈmɛntəʊ/, and in American English it is pronounced /dɪˌvɝːt̬ɪˈmɛnˌtoʊ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms found for this specialised term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: DIVERTI-mento. A musical piece meant to DIVERT and provide entertainMENT.
Conceptual Metaphor
MUSIC AS SOCIAL ENTERTAINMENT / ART AS LIGHT PLEASURE.
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'divertimento' primarily associated with?