Tone: meaning, definitions and examples

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tone

[ təʊn ]

^{Context #1}

sound

The distinctive quality of the sound produced by a particular instrument or voice.

Synonyms

sound quality, timbre

Examples of usage

The tone of her voice was soothing and calming.
I could recognize the tone of his guitar from a mile away.

^{Context #2}

literature

The general character or attitude of a place, piece of writing, situation, etc.

Synonyms

atmosphere, mood

Examples of usage

The tone of the novel was dark and melancholic.
The humorous tone of the speech lightened the mood of the audience.

^{Context #3}

communication

To give a particular character or style to something.

Synonyms

adjust, modulate

Examples of usage

She tried to tone down her message to make it more acceptable.
He toned his artwork with vibrant colors.

Translations

Translations of the word "tone" in other languages:

🇵🇹 tom

🇮🇳 स्वर

🇩🇪 Ton

🇮🇩 nada

🇺🇦 тон

🇵🇱 ton

🇯🇵 トーン

🇫🇷 ton

🇪🇸 tono

🇹🇷 ton

🇰🇷 톤

🇸🇦 نغمة

🇨🇿 tón

🇸🇰 tón

🇨🇳 音调

🇸🇮 ton

🇮🇸 tónn

🇰🇿 тон

🇬🇪 ტონი

🇦🇿 ton

🇲🇽 tono

Word origin

The word 'tone' originated from the Latin word 'tonus', meaning 'a sound, tone, accent'. Over time, its meaning evolved to include the quality of sound, the character or attitude of something, and the act of giving something a particular character or style. 'Tone' is a versatile word used in various contexts, from music to literature to communication.