Intoned Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Music

• In music, intonation refers to the accuracy of pitch in singing or playing instruments, highlighting the importance of tone.
• Vocal intonation can influence the emotional impact of a song, helping express joy, sadness, or tension.
• Training in intonation is essential for musicians, as it assures that their notes are in harmony with others.

Communication

• Intonation plays a critical role in spoken language, helping convey meaning beyond mere words, like sarcasm or excitement.
• In some languages, changing intonation can alter the meaning of a sentence entirely, showing its significance in communication.
• Practicing proper intonation can improve public speaking skills, making presentations more engaging and effective.

Psychology

• Research shows that intonation can influence listeners' perceptions of a speaker's confidence and emotional state.
• People often judge the trustworthiness of a speaker based on their vocal intonation, linking it to emotional intelligence.
• Variations in intonation can affect social interactions, impacting how relationships develop based on perceived empathy.

Literature

• Authors use intonational cues in dialogue to indicate character emotions, helping readers understand underlying feelings.
• Poetry often employs a rhythmic intonation that enhances the aesthetic experience of the written word.
• The intonation of a text can change with each reader, showcasing the subjective nature of interpreting literature.

Main points about word origin

• The word comes from the Latin 'intonare,' meaning 'to sound' or 'to thunder,' which relates to the way voices can resonate.
• It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally referring to the way chants or hymns are delivered.
• The prefix 'in-' modifies 'tone,' emphasizing the direction of the vocal delivery.

The word 'intone' originated from the Latin word 'intonare', which means 'to thunder, to resound'. It first appeared in English in the late 15th century with the meaning 'to sing, to recite with musical intonation'. Over time, 'intone' evolved to also include the sense of speaking in a monotonous or formal tone. Today, it is commonly used in various contexts to describe the manner in which someone speaks or recites.

At rank #26,217, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 26214 entrusting
• 26215 amortize
• 26216 toppling
• 26217 intoned
• 26218 petting
• 26219 rasping
• 26220 exultant
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