melody
MEL-uh-dee
/ˈmel.ə.di/
A sequence of single notes that is musically satisfying; the main tune of a song.
Refers specifically to the linear, horizontal sequence of pitches that listeners recognize as the dominant tune.
The story behind the word. From Ancient Greek 'melōidia', combining 'melos' (song or tune) and 'oidē' (singing). It passed into Latin and Old French before becoming established in English.
Word relationships
- tune: Tune is an everyday informal term, while melody suggests artistic design.
- air: Air specifically refers to a simple, song-like vocal or instrumental melody.
- noise: Noise lacks structured pitched relationships, unlike a coherent melody.
Commonly confused with
- harmony: Melody is the horizontal linear tune; harmony is the vertical stack of notes.
Word family
- melodic (adjective): Relating to or containing a pleasing melody.
- melodious (adjective): Sweet-sounding or pleasant to listen to.
Collocations
- haunting melody
- catchy melody
- vocal melody
Example sentences
- "The catchy melody stayed in my head all afternoon after hearing it once on the radio." Music performance review
Memory hook
A MELody is a MELLOW tune that sings sweet notes in sequence. The linear tune you hum.
When not to use
Do not confuse with harmony, which involves simultaneous vertical stacks of notes.
Fun facts
- Human brains process melodic contour in the right auditory cortex, identifying changes in pitch direction faster than explicit note letter names.
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