Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary · 1913

Recitative

Recitative (res`i*tȧ*tēv") , noun

[Italian recitativo, or French récitatif. See Recite.]

(Music) A species of musical recitation in which the words are delivered in a manner resembling that of ordinary declamation; also, a piece of music intended for such recitation; -- opposed to melisma.

Recitative , adjective

Of or pertaining to recitation; intended for musical recitation or declamation; in the style or manner of recitative.