melody

noun

mel·​o·​dy ˈme-lə-dē 

plural melodies

1

: a sweet or agreeable succession or arrangement of sounds

whilst all the winds with melody are ringing

—P. B. Shelley

2

: a rhythmic succession of single tones organized as an aesthetic whole

a hummable melody

the piper's fingers play the melody on a pipe called a chanter

—Pat Cahill

melodic

mə-ˈlä-dik 

adjective

melodically

mə-ˈlä-di-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Synonyms

• air
• lay
• song
• strain
• tune
• warble

Examples of melody in a Sentence

He wrote a piece that includes some beautiful melodies.

a composer known for his love of melody

He sang a few old melodies.

Recent Examples on the Web

However methodical, strict or manufactured the rhythms, the group balanced the mechanization with irresistible melodies and danceable grooves. —Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 30 Mar. 2025

And smaller groups like Angel Dust and Soft Play have added hooks, melody and even tenderness to their tracks. —Mike Isaac, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

The sonic change was a welcome one; soon after Metamorphosis’ release, Infinity Song went viral online for catchy melodies that swirl and twist their way inside your head. —Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 20 Mar. 2025

Fueled by infectious melodies and a smooth production, the Puerto Rican star sings about conquering an attractive woman who’s the object of his desire. —Jessica Roiz, Billboard, 21 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English melodie, from Anglo-French, from Late Latin melodia, from Greek melōidia chanting, music, from melos limb, musical phrase, song (probably akin to Breton mell joint) + aeidein to sing — more at ode

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

melody

noun

mel·​o·​dy ˈmel-əd-ē 

plural melodies

1

: a pleasing succession of sounds

2

: a series of musical tones arranged to give a pleasing effect

3

: the leading part in a musical composition involving harmony