timbre Definition
- 1the character or quality of a musical sound or voice as distinct from its pitch and intensity
- 2the unique tone color or quality of a sound produced by a particular instrument, voice, or ensemble
Using timbre: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "timbre" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The timbre of her voice was rich and warm.
Example
The timbre of the violin is different from that of the trumpet.
Example
The timbre of the guitar is often described as mellow or bright.
timbre Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for timbre
- sonority
- tone color
- tone quality
- sound quality
Phrases with timbre
Example
The cello has a rich timbre that is often used in orchestral music.
Example
Some people find the nasal timbre of certain singers to be unpleasant.
Example
The trumpet has a bright timbre that is often used in jazz music.
Origins of timbre
from French 'timbre', meaning 'stamp, bell'
Summary: timbre in Brief
The term 'timbre' [ˈtæmbər] refers to the character or quality of a musical sound or voice, distinct from its pitch and intensity. It is the unique tone color or quality of a sound produced by a particular instrument, voice, or ensemble. Examples include 'The timbre of her voice was rich and warm.' and 'The timbre of the guitar is often described as mellow or bright.' Phrases like 'rich timbre,' 'nasal timbre,' and 'bright timbre' describe specific qualities of sound.