deceptive cadence

noun

: a musical cadence in which the dominant resolves to a harmony other than the tonic (see tonic entry 2 sense 2)

called also false cadence, interrupted cadence, suspended cadence

Word History

First Known Use

1757, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of deceptive cadence was in 1757

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 deceptive cadence

Cite this Entry

“Deceptive cadence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deceptive%20cadence. Accessed 16 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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