noun

air

A musical tune.

The violinist plays a gentle air from an old songbook.

Etymology

French air can name a tune as well as air. English borrowed this musical use for a melody, often one that can be sung or recognized on its own.

More examples

  • She hummed a familiar air while cooking.
  • The concert included several traditional airs.
  • He arranged the air for two flutes.

Forms

air · airs

Similar words

tune
The usual everyday term for a recognizable melody.
melody
The sequence of notes rather than a named tune or composition.