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Octave - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An octave is a musical interval spanning eight notes, where the higher note has double the frequency of the lower one. It creates a harmonious sound and is fundamental in music theory.

octave

/ˈɑkteɪv/ /ˈɒktɪv/

Definition:

A musical interval spanning eight notes, or a group of eight lines in poetry.

Synonyms:

eighth, interval, scale, stanza, octet

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

unison, dissonance

Common Collocations:

perfect octave, sing an octave, span an octave, octave leap, octave range

Derivatives:

octaval, octavation

Usage Tips:

Use "octave" to describe a doubling of frequency in music or an eight-line stanza in poetry.

Common Phrases:

"sing an octave higher, " "perfect octave, " "octave leap"

Etymology:

From Latin "octava," meaning "eighth," referring to the eighth note in a musical scale.

Examples:

  • 1. The singer hit a high note an octave above the original pitch.
  • 2. The poem’s final stanza consists of an octave followed by a sestet.
  • 3. Pianos have multiple octaves to cover a wide range of musical tones.
  • 4. She practiced scales by playing each note and its octave simultaneously.

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