noun
octave
AHK-tiv/ˈɑːktɪv/
The interval spanning eight notes of a musical scale.
The two marked C keys on this piano are an octave apart.
Etymology
Latin 'eighth' points to eight diatonic scale positions, counting the starting note as the first. The eighth position above it is the corresponding note at twice its frequency.
In context
Its distinct timbre and pitch range are key characteristics to listen for. Interestingly, the xylophone typically sounds one octave higher than the written note.
More examples
- She sings the melody an octave higher than he does.
- I can barely stretch my fingers across an octave on the keyboard.
- The singers practice scales over two octaves.
Forms
octave · octaves
Similar words
- interval
- Names any distance between pitches, not specifically eight scale degrees.
- perfect octave
- Specifies the standard octave, with no widening or narrowing.