paraphonia

noun

para·​pho·​nia
ˌparəˈfōnēə
plural paraphonias
-eəz
also paraphoniae
-nēˌē
1
in Greek & medieval musical theory : a consonance or joint melodic progression of fourths and fifths
2
plural paraphonias [New Latin, from para- entry 1 + -phonia -phony] : abnormal change of voice

Word History

Etymology

Greek paraphōnia, from paraphōnos sounding beside (from para- para- entry 1 + phōnē sound) + -ia -y

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 paraphonia

Cite this Entry

“Paraphonia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/paraphonia. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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