semitone
Origin of semitone
1Other words from semitone
- sem·i·ton·ic [sem-ee-ton-ik, sem-ahy-], /ˌsɛm iˈtɒn ɪk, ˌsɛm aɪ-/, sem·i·ton·al [sem-ee-tohn-l, sem-ahy-], /ˌsɛm iˈtoʊn l, ˌsɛm aɪ-/, adjective
- sem·i·ton·al·ly, adverb
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024
How to use semitone in a sentence
Modern harps, however, have pedals for raising the natural note of any string by a semi-tone.
Springtime and Other Essays | Francis Darwin"Sarey Grimes, to be sure," replied the voice, in a semi-tone of exultation.
Ask Momma | R. S. SurteesShe was perfectly natural about it, a recitative semi-tone yet full of expression and dramatic breadth, at times almost a chant.
Memories and Anecdotes | Kate SanbornThe leading note is a semi-tone lower than the keynote, and is essential to the modern scales, both major and minor.
A Short History of English Music | Ernest FordThe difference from just intonation is about one-fiftieth of a semi-tone.
The Recent Revolution in Organ Building | George Laing Miller
British Dictionary definitions for semitone
/ (ˈsɛmɪˌtəʊn) /
an interval corresponding to a frequency difference of 100 cents as measured in the system of equal temperament, and denoting the pitch difference between certain adjacent degrees of the diatonic scale (diatonic semitone) or between one note and its sharpened or flattened equivalent (chromatic semitone); minor second: Also called (US and Canadian): half step Compare whole tone
Derived forms of semitone
- semitonic (ˌsɛmɪˈtɒnɪk), adjective
- semitonally, adverb
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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