Musical: meaning, definitions and examples

๐ŸŽต
Add to dictionary

musical

 

[หˆmjuหzษชkษ™l ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

related to music

Relating to music or the performance of music; characterized by the making or use of music.

Synonyms

harmonious, melodic, tuneful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
musical

Typically used to describe something related to music in general, such as a performance, instrument, or sound.

  • She has a musical talent.
  • The musical performance was outstanding.
melodic

Used to describe music, sounds, or voices that have a pleasant melody. Often applied to tunes that are easy to remember or sing.

  • The song had a beautiful melodic line.
  • Her voice is so melodic.
harmonious

Best used to describe sounds, relationships, or situations that are pleasingly consistent and in agreement. Can also be used metaphorically for well-coordinated teams or plans.

  • The choir's voices were harmonious.
  • They live in a harmonious community.
tuneful

Describes music or sounds that are full of pleasant and easily recognizable tunes. Often used in a positive context but can sometimes imply simplicity.

  • The band played a tuneful melody.
  • He whistled a tuneful tune.

Examples of usage

  • It was a magical, musical evening with the orchestra playing beautifully.
  • She had a natural talent for picking up musical instruments and playing them effortlessly.
  • The musical sounds of the birds in the morning filled the air with joy.
  • The musical notes seemed to dance through the room, creating a lively atmosphere.
  • I could hear the musical laughter of children playing in the distance.
Context #2 | Noun

a theatrical performance featuring singing and dancing

A play or movie in which singing and dancing play an essential part.

Synonyms

performance, production, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
musical

Refers to something related to music in general. Can be used to describe instruments, people, or anything else associated with music.

  • He has a musical talent that is truly remarkable.
  • The musical instrument store downtown has a great selection of guitars.
show

A general term that can refer to any form of entertainment presented to an audience, including TV programs, live performances, or theater. Informal and widely used in everyday conversations.

  • We watched a fantastic comedy show last night.
  • Are you going to the magic show this weekend?
production

Often used to describe the overall process and result of creating a play, film, or other theatrical work. It emphasizes the organizational and creative efforts involved.

  • The entire production took over a year to complete.
  • He is known for his work in film production.
performance

A general term used to describe an act of presenting a play, concert, or other form of entertainment to an audience. Can also refer to how well someone does in any activity or task.

  • The actors put on a stunning performance in the play.
  • Her performance in the exam was outstanding.

Examples of usage

  • We decided to go see a musical at the theater on Saturday night.
  • She dreamed of starring in a musical on Broadway one day.
  • The cast rehearsed tirelessly to perfect their performances for the musical.
  • The musical was a huge success, receiving standing ovations every night.
  • Musicals are known for their elaborate costumes and show-stopping numbers.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'musical' comes from the Latin 'musicalis,' meaning 'of music.'
  • The term has been used in English since the late 14th century, originally referring to musical conditions or traits.
  • Related words include 'musician' and 'musicality,' pointing towards a rich vocabulary in the art of sound.

Pop Culture

  • Broadway musicals, like 'Cats' and 'Hamilton,' have become cultural landmarks, attracting millions with their catchy songs and engaging stories.
  • The genre of musical film gained widespread popularity in the 1930s, with classics such as 'The Wizard of Oz' showcasing the power of music in storytelling.
  • Disney movies often feature strong musical elements, turning many songs into timeless favorites enjoyed by both kids and adults.

Science

  • Studies show that listening to music can boost mood and cognitive functions, enhancing learning and memory.
  • Musical training has been linked to improved brain development in children, particularly in areas related to language and spatial skills.
  • The phenomenon known as the 'Mozart effect' suggests that listening to classical music might temporarily enhance mathematical abilities.

Psychology

  • Music can evoke powerful emotions, often triggering memories associated with particular songs or genres.
  • Therapists use music therapy to help patients express feelings, improve mental health, and facilitate healing.
  • The brain releases dopamine, a feel-good chemical, when we listen to music we love, enhancing our overall happiness.

History

  • Musicals have their roots in ancient theatrical performances, where music was an integral part of entertainment.
  • The first organized musical theatre productions began in the early 18th century, combining dialogue and song.
  • Throughout history, different cultures have developed musical forms, from opera in Italy to modern hip-hop, highlighting musicโ€™s evolving nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "musical" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น musical

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เคธเค‚เค—เฅ€เคคเคฎเคฏ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช musikalisch

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ musikal

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะผัƒะทะธั‡ะฝะธะน

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ muzyczny

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ้Ÿณๆฅฝใฎ

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท musical

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ musical

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท mรผzikal

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์Œ์•…์˜

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ู…ูˆุณูŠู‚ูŠ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ hudebnรญ

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ hudobnรฝ

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ้Ÿณไน็š„

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ glasben

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ tรณnlist

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะผัƒะทั‹ะบะฐะปั‹า›

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ›แƒฃแƒกแƒ˜แƒ™แƒแƒšแƒฃแƒ แƒ˜

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ musiqi

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ musical

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,129, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.