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Resonances Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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resonances

[ˈrɛzənənsɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in physics

Resonances are the phenomena of amplification that occur when the frequency of a periodically applied force or a harmonic oscillator coincides with a natural frequency of the system. This results in increased amplitude of the vibrations.

Synonyms

harmonics, oscillations, vibrations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
resonances

Used to describe the amplification of sound or frequency caused by the natural frequency of an object or system matching the external vibrations.

  • The room was filled with resonances that intensified the music.
  • The engineers studied the structural resonances to prevent any acoustical issues.
vibrations

Can refer to any movement back and forth or up and down, often used to describe physical sensations or mechanical movements. It has a broad range of applications, from engineering to everyday contexts.

  • I could feel the vibrations from the passing train.
  • The vibrations from the machine were causing issues for the factory workers.
oscillations

Commonly used in physics and engineering to describe repetitive variations around a central value, such as in the motion of a pendulum or an electrical signal.

  • The pendulum's oscillations gradually slowed down.
  • Scientists measured the electrical oscillations in the circuit.
harmonics

Used in the context of music and physics to refer to the frequencies that are multiples of the fundamental frequency, creating a more complex sound.

  • The musician tuned the instrument to produce clear harmonics.
  • In physics class, we learned about harmonics and their role in sound waves.

Examples of usage

  • The glass shattered due to resonance caused by the opera singer's high note.
  • The suspension bridge collapsed because of the resonances created by the strong winds.
Context #2 | Noun

in music

In music, resonances refer to the prolongation of sound produced by sympathetic vibrations of other strings or soundboards when a note is played on an instrument.

Synonyms

acoustics, harmonies, overtones.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
resonances

Used when referring to the deep, prolonged sound that continues to reverberate in a space or specific systems, often in a scientific or technical context.

  • The resonances in the room were loud and clear.
  • Scientists are studying the resonances of the new material.
harmonies

Best used in music to describe the pleasing combination of different musical notes played or sung together.

  • The choir's harmonies were beautiful and precise.
  • He enjoys creating complex harmonies in his compositions.
overtones

Utilized in music and acoustics to talk about the higher frequencies that accompany the primary tone, or in a metaphorical sense to indicate underlying meanings.

  • The instrument produces rich overtones that enhance its sound.
  • His statement had political overtones.
acoustics

Appropriate when discussing the qualities or properties of a space that affect how sound is heard, such as in a concert hall or theater.

  • The acoustics in the new concert hall are amazing.
  • Poor acoustics can ruin a musical performance.

Examples of usage

  • The piano's resonances added depth to the music being played.
  • The violinist exploited the resonances of the instrument to create a rich tone.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, resonance occurs when an object vibrates at its own natural frequency, like a swing moving higher at the same rhythm as a push.
  • Acoustic resonance is crucial in musical instruments, allowing certain notes to sound richer and fuller.

Psychology

  • Resonances can refer to emotional connections; people often feel a strong sense of familiarity or connection with certain experiences or stories.
  • In therapy, finding resonances in personal storytelling helps individuals explore their emotions and learn from their past.

Literature

  • In literature, resonance can describe themes or motifs that echo throughout a work, creating deeper meaning and connection for the reader.
  • Authors often use resonant language to evoke emotions that linger with readers long after they've finished a book.

Cultural Significance

  • Folk music often captures resonances from the past, connecting generations through shared stories and sound.
  • Art can create resonances with viewers, sparking memories or emotions tied to personal experiences.

Origin of 'resonances'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'resonare,' which means 'to resound or echo.'
  • It was first used in English during the late 16th century in the context of sound and vibrations.

The word 'resonance' originated from the Latin word 'resonantia', which means 'echo'. It was first used in the 14th century to describe the reinforcement or prolongation of sound by the synchronous vibration of a neighboring object. Over time, the term expanded to include various fields such as physics, music, and even psychology, where it is used to describe the amplification or intensification of certain phenomena. The concept of resonance has played a significant role in the development of many scientific theories and musical compositions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,339, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.