Trill Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ต
trill
[trษชl ]
Definitions
music
A quavering or vibratory sound, especially a rapid alternation of sung or played notes.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trill |
Commonly used in music to describe a rapid alternation between two adjacent notes. It can also describe a similar type of sound made by birds or in speech for an expressive effect.
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| quaver |
Often used in music to indicate a slight, rapid variation in pitch or tone. In speaking, it describes a wavering or trembling sound, usually because of emotion such as fear or excitement.
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| warble |
Typically describes a melodious, fluctuating sound made by birds. When used for human voices, it often implies a quavering or vibrational quality, sometimes negatively suggesting an unstable tone.
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| tremolo |
Primarily a musical term referring to the rapid repetition of a single note or rapid alternation between two notes or chords, giving a vibrating effect. It can be used for both instruments and vocal music.
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Examples of usage
- The singer added a trill to the end of the song for a dramatic effect.
- The flute player performed a beautiful trill in the concerto.
music
To produce a trill.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| trill |
Used in music to describe a rapid alternation between two adjacent notes. Often found in classical music, especially in works for the piano, violin, and other solo instruments.
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| quaver |
Describes a shaking or trembling sound, especially a voice. It's often used when someone is nervous, scared or emotional.
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| warble |
Describes the continuous, varied, and melodious sound, typically made by birds. Can also describe a human voice that is singing in a similar, melodious manner.
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| tremolo |
Refers to a musical effect where a single note is rapidly repeated or when two pitches are rapidly alternated, creating a trembling sound. Commonly used in string instruments like the violin or guitar.
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Examples of usage
- The pianist trilled the notes effortlessly.
- She trilled the high notes with precision.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Music
- In music, a trill is notated as a symbol that indicates to the musician to alternate between two adjacent notes quickly.
- Trills are often used in classical compositions to add excitement and flourishes to melodies.
- Famous composers such as Bach and Mozart frequently included trills in their music to showcase virtuosity.
Biology
- Many bird species use trills in their songs to attract mates or to mark territory, showcasing their fitness.
- The trill can be crucial for communication among animals, helping to convey specific messages.
- Some frogs also produce a trill-like sound during mating calls to attract females.
Pop Culture
- Trills are integral in scat singing, a vocal improvisation style used in jazz where singers mimic instruments.
- In the popular animated series 'The Simpsons,' characters often use trills for comedic effect during musical moments.
- Certain musical genres, like pop and jazz, widely incorporate trills to create catchy hooks and memorable phrases.
Psychology
- Research indicates that high-pitched trill-like sounds can evoke feelings of happiness and excitement in listeners.
- Musical education often emphasizes the importance of learning trills as they enhance motor skills and auditory perception.
- Trilling in communication can indicate playful behavior in young children as they explore sounds and melodies.
Origin of 'trill'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle French word 'triller,' meaning to trample or to shake.
- Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'trillare,' which means to roll or to move in a circle.
- Originally used in music to describe a rapid alternation of notes to embellish a melody.
The word 'trill' originated from the Middle English 'trillen', which meant 'to flow in a liquid manner'. It has roots in Old High German and Latin. Over time, 'trill' came to be associated with music, specifically the rapid alternation of two adjacent notes in a melody. The term has been used in music theory and practice for centuries, becoming a common technique in vocal and instrumental performances.
See also: trillion.