Mixolydian mode

noun

1
: an ancient Greek mode represented on the white keys of the piano by a descending diatonic scale from B to B see greek mode
2
: an authentic church mode represented on the white keys of the piano by a diatonic scale from G to G with D as its tenor (see tenor entry 1 sense 2a) and G as its final (see final entry 2 sense c) see church mode illustration

Word History

Etymology

mixolydian from Greek mixolydios mixolydian (from mixo- + lydios Lydian) + English -an; mixolydian mode translation of Greek mixolydios harmonia

First Known Use

1712, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Mixolydian mode was in 1712

The Ultimate Dictionary 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

Dictionary Entries Near Mixolydian mode

Cite this Entry

“Mixolydian mode.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Mixolydian%20mode. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!