Bass Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ธ
bass
[beษชs ]
Definitions
musical instrument
Bass refers to a musical instrument that produces low-pitched sounds. It is an essential part of most music genres, providing the foundation and rhythm for the composition. The bass can be played with fingers or a pick, and it is commonly used in bands and orchestras.
Synonyms
bass guitar, double bass, electric bass.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bass |
This can also refer to a type of fish; used when talking about fishing or cooking.
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| bass guitar |
Specifically refers to a string instrument used in various music genres. Often mentioned in a musical performance or when talking about learning or playing the instrument.
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| double bass |
Used when referring to a large string instrument mainly used in classical, jazz, and swing music. Often spoken about in the context of orchestras and jazz bands.
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| electric bass |
Refers to a type of bass guitar that requires an amplifier to produce sound. Commonly used in modern music genres such as rock, pop, and funk.
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Examples of usage
- The bass player in the band creates a solid groove.
- The bass guitar adds depth to the music.
fish
Bass also refers to a type of fish found in both freshwater and saltwater. Bass are popular among anglers for their fighting spirit and delicious taste. They are known for their distinctive striped pattern and are sought after for recreational fishing.
Synonyms
largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bass |
This term also refers to a low-frequency sound in music, typically the lower range of an instrumental or vocal range. It is used in musical contexts.
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| striped bass |
This term is used to describe a type of fish that can live in both saltwater and freshwater. It is often targeted by anglers along the Atlantic coast.
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| largemouth bass |
This term is specific to a type of freshwater game fish that is popular in sport fishing. It should be used when discussing fishing, especially in North American contexts.
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| smallmouth bass |
This term refers to another specific type of freshwater fish, also popular in sport fishing. It is slightly smaller than largemouth bass and found in rivers and lakes.
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Examples of usage
- I caught a large bass while fishing in the lake.
- Bass fishing is a popular hobby among outdoor enthusiasts.
sound
Bass is the lowest range of musical notes or tones. It provides richness and depth to music, often felt more than heard. Bass frequencies are crucial in creating a full and balanced sound in songs and compositions.
Synonyms
bass notes, deep frequencies, low tones.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| bass |
In a different context, it can also refer to a type of fish, specifically those in the family Serranidae or Moronidae.
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| low tones |
Generally used to describe sounds that are lower in pitch, not necessarily specific to music, and can refer to any low-pitched sound.
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| deep frequencies |
This term is often used in technical or sound engineering contexts to discuss the lower end of the audio frequency spectrum.
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| bass notes |
Used when specifically referring to the lower-pitched notes in a piece of music, either played by an instrument or sung by a voice.
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Examples of usage
- The bass in this song really makes you feel the music.
- His voice has a deep bass that resonates throughout the room.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Bass fishing is a popular recreational activity in the United States, with tournaments attracting thousands of participants each year.
- In music, bass lines are essential in genres like jazz and rock, providing rhythm and depth to the overall sound.
- The phrase 'the bass dropped' often refers to a moment in electronic music when deep sounds hit dramatically.
Science
- Bass can adapt to various environments, thriving in both freshwater lakes and tidal saltwater regions.
- They are known for their excellent hearing abilities, partly due to specialized structures in their inner ear.
- Some species of bass can live for over 10 years, and they can weigh up to 20 pounds or more, depending on the type.
Literature
- Bass are often featured in American folklore and literature, symbolizing adventure and the love of nature.
- 'The Bass, the River, and Sheila Mant' is a short story capturing the struggle between love and passion for fishing.
Music
- In orchestras, the bass section includes instruments like the double bass, which plays lower notes and adds richness to musical compositions.
- Popular music genres emphasize bass, with artists frequently using strong bass lines to engage listeners on dance floors.
Origin of 'bass'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'bass' comes from the Old French word 'base', which means low, reflecting its musical meaning.
- In terms of fish, 'bass' origins trace back to Middle English, indicating a type of fish that was commonly caught.
- The pronunciation of 'bass' differs in fish (pronounced 'bass' like 'grass') and music (pronounced 'base' like 'face').
The word 'bass' has a rich history, with its origins dating back to the Middle English word 'bas' or 'bass', which in turn came from the Old French word 'basse'. This ultimately traces back to the Late Latin word 'bassus', meaning 'low'. Over time, 'bass' has evolved to encompass meanings related to music, fish, and sound frequencies, reflecting its versatility in the English language.