zëra

Zëra is a noun in the Albanian language meaning “voices” or “tones.” It is the plural form of zë, which denotes a voice, sound, or tone. The term is commonly used in everyday speech as well as in linguistic, literary, and musical contexts to refer to multiple vocal sounds, timbres, or pitches.

Grammatical notes: In standard Albanian, zëra refers to the indefinite plural, while the definite plural is zërat, used with a definite noun phrase, for example, “zërat e këngës” (the voices of the song). The word can describe human voices, animal sounds, or musical timbres, and it often appears in discussions of vocal range, harmony, or texture.

Usage examples: Zëra të ndryshëm mund të kontribuojnë në estetin e një këngëje. In a choir, zëra mund të altër, sopran, tenor, and bass. In linguistic discussion, zëra might refer to distinct sound qualities within a speech community.

Etymology and relation: Zëra derives from zë, the Albanian root meaning voice or sound. It is part of a broader semantic field that includes qualities of tone, pitch, and timbre, and it is frequently paired with adjectives describing vocal characteristics or musical features.

See also: Zë (voice), Albanian language, Music theory, Phonology.