alto clef

noun

: the C clef when placed on the musical staff to indicate that middle C is on the middle line of the staff

called also viola clef

see clef illustration

Word History

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of alto clef was in 1813

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near alto clef

Cite this Entry

“Alto clef.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alto%20clef. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!