pedal point

noun

: a single tone usually the tonic or dominant that is normally sustained in the bass and sounds against changing harmonies in the other parts

Examples of pedal point in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Growly, subterranean pedal points and eerie screeches signal the three murders, evoked in animated silhouette by Nichols’ artfully gruesome projections. John Von Rhein, chicagotribune.com, 11 Feb. 2018

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pedal point was in 1846

Dictionary Entries Near pedal point

Cite this Entry

“Pedal point.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pedal%20point. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

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