Consonance: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin 'consonantia', which means 'sounding together'.
• It has roots in the prefix 'con-' meaning 'together' and 'sonare' meaning 'to sound'.
• This term started being used in English around the 14th century, primarily in music and literature.

Literature

• In poetry, consonance refers to the repetition of consonant sounds anywhere in the words, not just at the beginning.
• Famous poets like Edgar Allan Poe often used consonance to create mood and musicality in their poems.
• The effect can enhance a poem's rhythm, making it more engaging and memorable for readers.

Music

• In music, consonance refers to harmonious sounds that are pleasing to the ear, often used to create resolutions in compositions.
• Triads (three-note chords) are a common example of consonant structures that provide a sense of stability in music.
• Unlike dissonance, which creates tension, consonance helps resolve musical phrases and can evoke feelings of joy or calm.

Psychology

• Research shows that consonant sounds tend to be perceived as more pleasant, influencing our emotional reactions to music and poetry.
• The brain processes consonance differently from dissonance, often favoring the former for feeling safe and relaxed.
• Harmonious patterns can enhance memory retention, making it easier for listeners to recall information presented in a consonant format.

Pop Culture

• Modern songwriters use consonance intentionally to create catchy lyrics that stick in listeners' minds.
• Movies often highlight consonance in soundtracks to evoke certain emotions during key scenes, enhancing the overall experience.
• Popular songs like 'Hey Jude' by The Beatles utilize consonance in their lyrics to create a memorable and singable chorus.

Positioned at #21,726, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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