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intonation

in·to·na·tion

intonation

 
 
pronunciation:
In t neI shn
features:
Word Combinations (noun)
part of speech: noun
definition 1: the pattern of changes in pitch of the speaking or singing voice.
In English, rising intonation at the end of a statement usually signals a question.
definition 2: the act or manner of speaking, esp. with regard to pitch and its reflection of meaning.
The drama teacher had us study two actors' intonation of the same lines from Shakespeare.
similar words:
elocution, tone
definition 3: the act or manner of producing musical tones.
The bassoonist, whose intonation is usually perfect, was tonight consistently flat.To play in this quartet, you will need a clarinet that allows better intonation.
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derivation: intonational (adj.)