DictionarynoteMusical tone
noun

note

A single musical tone or the symbol representing it.

The pianist plays a single clear note before the song begins.

Etymology

The word first connects with a written mark. A mark representing a musical sound gave its name to the sound itself, producing the paired written and audible meanings.

More examples

  • The singer holds the final note for several seconds.
  • She writes the notes on the lines and spaces of the staff.
  • A half note lasts twice as long as a quarter note.

Forms

note · notes

Similar words

tone
Names a musical sound, but not its written symbol.
sound
Broader: anything audible, not necessarily a distinct musical tone.