Entry 2 senses · 2 variants Webster, 1913 Cantabile · Can·ta·bi·le · IPA a. n. 01 a. In a melodious, flowing style; in a singing style, as opposed to bravura, recitativo, or parlando. 1. In a melodious, flowing style; in a singing style, as opposed to bravura, recitativo, or parlando.(Mus.) 02 n. A piece or passage, whether vocal or instrumental, peculiarly adapted to singing; -- sometimes called cantilena. 1. A piece or passage, whether vocal or instrumental, peculiarly adapted to singing; -- sometimes called cantilena.(Mus.) Also: cantilena