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
Examples of intonation in a Sentence
identical sentences, differing only in intonation
Recent Examples on the Web
Wilson and Sheen are pretty exacting in their attention to their characters’ mannerisms and the intonations of their voices.
—
Jack King, Vulture, 19 Sep. 2024
In advertising, the community should be involved in all roles that impact ultimate success of the message, including writing, storyline, language, intonation, message nuances, and the fine points of production that can all make a difference in making the community feel heard.
—Michelle Greenwald, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024
The track is a masterclass in both hip-hop storytelling and the infinite powers of shifting intonation to denote different characters and timelines.
—Michael Saponara, Billboard, 3 Sep. 2019
The true hero of one-liners is Chandler — even going back to the very first episode, they're delivered with perfect intonation and timing by Matthew Perry.
—Jenny Porter Tilley, The Indianapolis Star, 17 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intonation 
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Jack King, Vulture, 19 Sep. 2024
In advertising, the community should be involved in all roles that impact ultimate success of the message, including writing, storyline, language, intonation, message nuances, and the fine points of production that can all make a difference in making the community feel heard.
—Michelle Greenwald, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024
The track is a masterclass in both hip-hop storytelling and the infinite powers of shifting intonation to denote different characters and timelines.
—Michael Saponara, Billboard, 3 Sep. 2019
The true hero of one-liners is Chandler — even going back to the very first episode, they're delivered with perfect intonation and timing by Matthew Perry.
—Jenny Porter Tilley, The Indianapolis Star, 17 Aug. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intonation
Dictionary Entries Near intonation
Cite this Entry
“Intonation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intonation. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationKids 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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share