Overtone: meaning, definitions and examples

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overtone

[ ˈoʊvərˌtoʊn ]

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musical sound

An overtone is a musical tone that is a part of the sound of a musical instrument and that is higher than the fundamental tone.

Synonyms

harmonic, partial tone

Examples of usage

The flute produces overtones that enrich its sound.
By adjusting the pressure on the string, the guitarist can control the overtone produced.

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hidden meaning

An overtone can also refer to an additional meaning or implication that is associated with a word or situation, beyond its literal meaning.

Synonyms

subtext, undertone

Examples of usage

There was an overtone of sadness in her voice.
The politician's speech had an overtone of aggression.

Translations

Translations of the word "overtone" in other languages:

🇵🇹 harmônico

🇮🇳 ऊपरी स्वर

🇩🇪 Oberton

🇮🇩 nada atas

🇺🇦 обертон

🇵🇱 przydźwięk

🇯🇵 倍音 (ばいおん)

🇫🇷 harmonique

🇪🇸 armonico

🇹🇷 üst ton

🇰🇷 배음 (baeum)

🇸🇦 توافقي

🇨🇿 přezvuk

🇸🇰 vyšší tón

🇨🇳 泛音 (fànyīn)

🇸🇮 nadton

🇮🇸 yfirtonar

🇰🇿 обертон

🇬🇪 ოვერტონი

🇦🇿 overtone

🇲🇽 armónico

Word origin

The word 'overtone' originated in the mid 18th century from the combination of 'over' and 'tone'. It was first used in the context of music to describe the higher tones produced along with the fundamental tone. Over time, the term expanded to also include additional meanings or implications associated with words or situations.