Recitative (noun)

1. A type of operatic singing in which the melody is performed in a speech-like manner, often with very little or no vibrato, used to convey dialogue and narrative.
2. A style of singing that resembles speech, used in early opera and oratorio, usually without vibrato or ornamentation.

Origin:

Late 16th century from latin recitativus, from recitare "to recite".

Examples:

1. The famous aria was performed in recitative style.
2. The recitative is often considered to be the least melodic form of music.
3. The aria was performed in a recitative style by the opera singer.
4. The recitative was used to convey the narrative of the story in the opera.
5. The recitative was used to tell the story in the oratorio.