What does overtone mean?
The term 'overtone' refers to a sound or note that is produced in addition to the main sound or note in a musical instrument or voice. It is typically a harmonic or a series of harmonics that add depth and complexity to the sound. In music, the term 'overtone' is used to describe the upper partials of a sound, and it is often used to add warmth and richness to a melody. The term 'overtone' has its roots in German and Latin, with the German word 'Überton' meaning 'over-tone' and the Latin words 'super' and 'tonus' meaning 'over' and 'tone' respectively. The term 'overtone' is used in a variety of contexts, including music, acoustics, and physics. It is an important concept in understanding the properties of sound and its behavior in different environments.
nounA sound or note that is produced in addition to the main sound or note in a musical instrument or voice, typically a harmonic or a series of harmonics.
- A sound or note that is produced in addition to the main sound or note in a musical instrument or voice, typically a harmonic or a series of harmonics.
"The violinist's tone had a rich overtone that added depth to the melody."
"The singer's voice had a beautiful overtone that filled the concert hall."
"The sound of the cello had a rich overtone that added warmth to the music."
The plural form 'overtones' is used to describe multiple harmonics or upper partials of a sound.
"The sound of the cello had a rich overtone that added warmth to the music."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of overtone
The term 'overtone' has its roots in German and Latin. The German word 'Überton' means 'over-tone', and it is derived from the Latin words 'super' and 'tonus', which mean 'over' and 'tone' respectively. The term 'overtone' was first used in the 17th century to describe the harmonics or upper partials of a sound. It has since been used in a variety of contexts, including music, acoustics, and physics.
How overtone is actually used
In music, the term 'overtone' refers to a sound or note that is produced in addition to the main sound or note. It is often used to describe the harmonics or upper partials of a sound.