I. ˈal-(ˌ)tō noun
( plural altos )
Etymology: Italian, literally, high, from Latin altus
Date: circa 1724
1.
a. : countertenor
b. : contralto
2. : the second highest voice part in a 4-part chorus
3. : a member of a family of instruments having a range lower than that of the treble or soprano ; especially : an alto saxophone
II. adjective
Date: circa 1724
: relating to or having the range or part of an alto