intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 

-(ˌ)tō-

1

: manner of utterance

specifically : the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech

2

: something that is intoned

specifically : the opening tones of a Gregorian chant

3

: the act of intoning and especially of chanting

4

: the ability to play or sing notes in tune

intonational

ˌin-tə-ˈnā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-(ˌ)tō-

adjective

Examples of intonation in a Sentence

identical sentences, differing only in intonation

Recent Examples on the Web

The layered beat builds like a dream, swirling burbling synth melodies, breathy intonations, and pulsing rhythms into synchrony. —Stephen Kearse, TIME, 9 Dec. 2024

Voice cloning technology: Using just a few seconds of recorded audio, AI tools can replicate a person’s voice, complete with intonation and emotional inflections. —Chris Westfall, Forbes, 29 Nov. 2024

While her voice and intonation aren’t markedly different, she’s definitely pitched herself up in her regular speaking voice. —Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 27 Nov. 2024

Wilson and Sheen are pretty exacting in their attention to their characters’ mannerisms and the intonations of their voices. —Jack King, Vulture, 19 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of intoning

also : something intoned

2

: the ability to play or sing music in tune

3

: the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech

intonational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective