intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 

-(ˌ)tō-

1

: manner of utterance

specifically : the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech

2

: something that is intoned

specifically : the opening tones of a Gregorian chant

3

: the act of intoning and especially of chanting

4

: the ability to play or sing notes in tune

intonational

ˌin-tə-ˈnā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-(ˌ)tō-

adjective

Examples of intonation in a Sentence

identical sentences, differing only in intonation

Recent Examples on the Web

Elephants don’t have signature calls like dolphins and parrots, but each elephant’s voice has a unique intonation and character, much like ours do. —Celia Ford, Vox, 10 June 2024

And there are lots of languages with features not found in English, such as the clicks of some African languages or the centrality of intonation in Mandarin. —John Timmer, Ars Technica, 20 May 2024

Then call the crew and cast, then start rehearsal, then consult on moving, accent, or intonation. —Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 24 Apr. 2024

Clarity of thought and expression will become democratized, and the rich knowledge and ideas will be shared in the owner’s own voice and intonations. —Beena Ammanath, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of intoning

also : something intoned

2

: the ability to play or sing music in tune

3

: the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech

intonational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective