Metronomically Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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metronomically

[ˌmɛtrəˈnɒmɪkli ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

music

In a metronomic manner, with a steady and precise rhythm.

Synonyms

precisely, rhythmically, steadily.

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Word Description / Examples
metronomically

Used to describe something happening in a regular, consistent manner, often with a mechanical precision associated with a metronome.

  • The drummer played the beat metronomically, never missing a tick.
  • She typed metronomically, her fingers hitting the keys at a steady pace.
rhythmically

Used to describe something that has a regular, repeated pattern in a way that often involves movement or sound.

  • The waves crashed rhythmically against the shore.
  • She moved rhythmically to the music, lost in the dance.
steadily

Used to describe something happening in a constant and reliable manner over a period of time.

  • The snow fell steadily throughout the night.
  • He worked steadily on his project, making progress every day.
precisely

Used to emphasize accuracy and exactness in details, measurements, or actions.

  • He placed the vase precisely in the center of the table.
  • You need to measure the ingredients precisely to get the correct flavor.

Examples of usage

  • He played the piano metronomically, keeping perfect time with the beat.
  • The conductor waved his baton metronomically, guiding the orchestra through the piece.
  • The metronomic ticking of the clock filled the room with a sense of order.
  • The metronomic pulse of the electronic music had everyone dancing in perfect synchrony.
  • She walked metronomically, her steps echoing with a rhythmic pattern.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Music

  • Metronomic timing is crucial in classical music, where orchestras must play in synch to create harmony.
  • Some contemporary musicians use metronomic backing tracks to ensure their performances maintain perfect timing.
  • In modern music production, software metronomes help artists keep a consistent beat while recording.

Psychology

  • Regularity in activities can have calming effects on the mind, often linked to routines in daily life.
  • Studies suggest that tasks performed metronomically can enhance focus by removing distractions.
  • The body’s circadian rhythms can also be described as functioning metronomically, affecting sleeping and eating patterns.

Technology

  • In programming and robotics, metronomic processes can refer to tasks that are timed periodically to maintain system efficiency.
  • Various technologies rely on metronomic signals, such as LIDAR used in autonomous vehicles, to create precise measurements.
  • The concept is applied in computing where processes must be synchronized to ensure systems run smoothly.

Literature

  • Authors may use metronomic pacing in prose to create tension or rhythm in storytelling, influencing how readers perceive time.
  • Poetry often employs metronomic patterns, where repetition and rhythm enhance the lyrical quality of the text.
  • In novels, the use of metronomically spaced events can symbolize order or the inevitable passing of time.

Origin of 'metronomically'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'metron', meaning measure, and 'nomos', meaning law, suggesting the idea of maintaining a regular rhythm.
  • It was first used in the 19th century as musical practice evolved, highlighting the importance of timing in music.
  • The concept relates closely to the word 'metronome', an instrument developed in the early 1800s to help musicians keep a steady tempo.

The word 'metronomically' is derived from the noun 'metronome', which originated from the Greek words 'metron' (measure) and 'nomos' (law). The metronome was invented in 1815 by Johann Maelzel, a German inventor and musician. It is a device used in music to mark time at a selected rate by giving a regular tick. The adverb 'metronomically' is used to describe actions or processes that are performed with a steady and precise rhythm, similar to the ticking of a metronome.