Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/kɔːrd/

Definitions

• A group of (typically three or more) musical notes sounded together, as a basis of harmony.
• A combination of sounds or notes, especially ones that sound harmonious when played together.
• (In a figurative sense) A feeling or quality that evokes an emotional response.

Usage Examples

• "The musician played a beautiful chord that resonated throughout the hall."
• "She struck the chord on the piano with delicate fingers, evoking a deep emotion."
• "The singer’s voice struck a chord with the audience, bringing tears to their eyes."

Etymology

The word "chord" comes from the Old French "corde," meaning "string," which is a diminutive form of the Latin word "chorda," meaning "string" or "rope." The term originally referred to the strings of a musical instrument, and over time evolved to represent the simultaneous sounding of multiple musical notes.

Synonyms

• Harmonious combination
• Triad
• Arpeggio
• Accord

Antonyms

• Discord
• Dissonance
• Clash

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some regional dialects, the word "chord" may be pronounced with a softer "r" or a more pronounced "d" depending on the accent. Additionally, in some regions, the word might be mistakenly pronounced as "cord," which is a different word with a separate meaning.

Historical Usage

The concept of a "chord" has been present in music since ancient times. Early forms of music often involved single notes or simple melodies, but as music evolved, the concept of harmony—achieved by combining multiple notes—emerged. By the 16th century, musicians and composers were developing complex chord structures, which became fundamental to Western classical music and later jazz, pop, and contemporary styles.

Cultural Nuances

Chords hold significant cultural importance, particularly in Western music traditions, where harmony and chord progressions form the backbone of many genres. In other musical traditions, such as Indian classical music, harmony in the Western sense is not as emphasized, but chord-like structures can still be found in drone-based accompaniment. Chords can evoke different emotions—major chords often evoke happiness or brightness, while minor chords tend to convey sadness or melancholy.

More Information

A chord is not only a fundamental element of music theory but also a vehicle for emotional expression. Different types of chords (such as major, minor, diminished, or augmented) provide musicians with a vast array of possibilities for creating different moods and atmospheres. The study of chords and their progressions is an essential part of music education, and it is often the foundation for song composition and arrangement in various genres, from classical to modern pop music.