medial cadence

noun

1

: a musical cadence in a church mode that does not end on the final (see final entry 2 sense c)

2

: a musical cadence with an inverted penultimate chord compare radical cadence

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dicitonary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now