Definition
A singing style that rapidly alternates between the chest voice and falsetto in a rhythmic, melodic pattern, characterized by sudden shifts between registers. Traditionally associated with Alpine folk music, particularly Swiss and Tyrolean cultures.
Example Usage
The mountain guide yodeled across the valley to communicate with distant companions.
Origin
From German *jodeln*, likely derived from *jo* and *yodl*, which may be imitative or connected to Alpine folk traditions; the exact origin is debated.
Fun Fact
Yodeling was historically used by Alpine herders as a form of long-distance communication across mountains, predating modern communication technology.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
Related Terms
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See “yodel” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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