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Harmonics: meaning, definitions and examples

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harmonics

 

[hɑrˈmɒnɪks ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

Harmonics are frequencies produced by a musical instrument that are multiples of the fundamental frequency. They create a richer, more complex sound.

Synonyms

overtones, partials, resonances.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harmonics

Commonly used in physics and music to describe specific frequencies that are integer multiples of a fundamental frequency.

  • The musician adjusted the string tension to achieve perfect harmonics.
  • Scientists study harmonics to understand wave behavior.
overtones

Often used in music to describe the additional frequencies that combine with the fundamental frequency to create complex sounds.

  • The singer's rich tone was due to the presence of strong overtones.
  • Overtones give musical instruments their unique sounds.
partials

A technical term in acoustics, referring to the components of a sound that are not necessarily harmonically related; useful for detailed sound analysis.

  • Partials are essential in synthesizing realistic instrument sounds.
  • The analysis showed that the bell produced many inharmonic partials.
resonances

Used broadly in physics and engineering to describe the phenomenon where a system vibrates intensely at specific frequencies; also used metaphorically.

  • The bridge collapsed due to resonances that occurred during strong winds.
  • Her words had a deep resonance with the audience.

Examples of usage

  • The violinist played a harmonic on the highest string.
  • The piano technician adjusted the harmonics to enhance the tone of the instrument.
  • Harmonics can add depth and color to a musical composition.
Context #2 | Noun

physics

In physics, harmonics refer to the multiples of the fundamental frequency in a wave. They are important in the study of wave behavior and interference.

Synonyms

frequency multiple, overtone, undertone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harmonics

Used in physics and engineering to describe the integer multiples of a fundamental frequency which contribute to the sound or signal.

  • The harmonics of this guitar string give it a rich sound.
  • Engineers need to consider harmonics when designing circuits to avoid interference.
overtone

Used in music and acoustics to describe higher frequencies that are above the fundamental frequency, making up the tone of a sound.

  • The singer's voice has beautiful overtones that add depth to the performance.
  • Overtones are essential for the richness of sounds produced by musical instruments.
undertone

Commonly used in literary analysis, art, and music to describe a subdued or underlying quality. Also refers to frequency components lower than the main frequency.

  • Her comments had an undertone of sarcasm.
  • The painting has a dark undertone that suggests melancholy.
frequency multiple

Technical term mostly used in electronics and signal processing to describe frequencies that are multiples of a given base frequency.

  • In the phase-locked loop, frequency multiples are used to stabilize the signal.
  • Frequency multiples can cause issues in sensitive electronic circuits.

Examples of usage

  • The engineer analyzed the harmonics of the sound wave to determine its properties.
  • Understanding harmonics is crucial in designing efficient acoustic systems.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'harmonics' comes from the Greek word 'harmonikos,' meaning 'musical' or 'harmonic.'
  • Originally, the study of harmonics was closely tied to music theory, exploring how sounds relate to each other.

Music Theory

  • Harmonics are frequencies that are whole-number multiples of a fundamental frequency, creating rich sound textures.
  • Musicians often use harmonics to create unique sounds on string instruments by lightly touching the strings at certain points.

Physics

  • In physics, harmonics refer to wave patterns, which can be predicted by understanding vibrations and their frequencies.
  • Harmonics play a significant role in various fields of engineering, such as acoustics and audio technology.

Cultural Impact

  • Harmonics are integral in genres like jazz and classical music, where complex layering of sounds creates depth.
  • The study of harmonics has influenced various cultures and their musical practices, from African drumming to Asian traditional music.

Technology

  • Digital audio editing software utilizes harmonics to enhance sound quality and create sound effects and music.
  • Harmonic analysis is used in telecommunications to improve the clarity and efficiency of transmitting audio signals.

Translations

Translations of the word "harmonics" in other languages:

🇵🇹 harmônicos

🇮🇳 हार्मोनिक्स

🇩🇪 Harmonische

🇮🇩 harmonisa

🇺🇦 гармоніки

🇵🇱 harmoniki

🇯🇵 高調波 (こうちょうは)

🇫🇷 harmoniques

🇪🇸 armónicos

🇹🇷 harmonikler

🇰🇷 고조파 (gojopa)

🇸🇦 التوافقيات

🇨🇿 harmonické

🇸🇰 harmonické

🇨🇳 谐波 (xié bō)

🇸🇮 harmoniki

🇮🇸 harmóníur

🇰🇿 гармоникалар

🇬🇪 ჰარმონიკები

🇦🇿 harmonikalar

🇲🇽 armónicos

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,090, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.