A singing technique where the voice rapidly switches between low and high notes, creating a distinctive echoing effect, traditionally used in Alpine mountain regions.
From German 'jodeln,' which likely imitates the sound itself. The technique became popular in the Alps where shepherds used it to communicate across mountains, and the word entered English in the 19th century.
Yodeling was actually a practical communication tool before it became entertainment—Alpine shepherds could be heard across vast distances, making it an early form of long-distance 'calling.' The rapid pitch changes make it almost impossible for echoes to confuse your message!
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