timbre
Exam frequency
GRE
high
Banks
high
Civil Services
high
Meaning(s)
the tone of a sound
How to Memorize
timbre - tone
Analysis
The formal word ‘timbre' refers to the particular quality of a sound that makes it distinct from others. It is most commonly used in relation to that of a voice or musical instrument. This term is most likely to be encountered in written English as in conversation one would be more likely to use the less formal 'tone’.
| Exams | Spoken | Other | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Synonyms | resonance,modulation | ||
| Antonyms | visuals |
Example(s)
The radio DJ has a soothing, reassuring timbre to his voice. That’s why he’s so popular with the audience.
When Clare gave Sam the bad news, there was a sad timbre to her voice. She was clearly very upset.
The timbre of that instrument is like nothing I have ever heard before. That's why I simply had to buy it.