melody

noun

mel·​o·​dy ˈme-lə-dē 

plural melodies

1

: a sweet or agreeable succession or arrangement of sounds

whilst all the winds with melody are ringing

—P. B. Shelley

2

: a rhythmic succession of single tones organized as an aesthetic whole

a hummable melody

the piper's fingers play the melody on a pipe called a chanter

—Pat Cahill

melodic

mə-ˈlä-dik 

adjective

melodically

mə-ˈlä-di-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• air
• lay
• song
• strain
• tune
• warble

Examples of melody in a Sentence

He wrote a piece that includes some beautiful melodies.

a composer known for his love of melody

He sang a few old melodies.

Recent Examples on the Web

Location: Spectrum Center Time: 8pm Tickets: $73 Feb. 19 & 20: Wallows This indie rock band is known for their catchy melodies and dynamic performances. —Laura Barrero, Axios, 31 Jan. 2025

Another likely highlight is Peruvian composer Jimmy López’s Perú Negro, which was inspired by indigenous Afro-Peruvian melodies. —George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Jan. 2025

Playing instrumental music right now is so good for the soul in these wacky times just to escape to the melodies. —Lily Moayeri, SPIN, 30 Jan. 2025

As 2025 unfolds, Kaleb Sanders stands ready to captivate the nation with his heartfelt lyrics, compelling melodies, and unwavering dedication to his craft. —Ethan Stone, USA TODAY, 28 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English melodie, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin melodia, from Greek melōidia chanting, music, from melos limb, musical phrase, song (probably akin to Breton mell joint) + aeidein to sing — more at ode

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

melody

noun

mel·​o·​dy ˈmel-əd-ē 

plural melodies

1

: a pleasing succession of sounds

2

: a series of musical tones arranged to give a pleasing effect

3

: the leading part in a musical composition involving harmony