six-four chord

noun

: a musical triad in second inversion

When the six-four chord occurred on a strong beat, the fourth in particular and often also the sixth were treated like suspensions or appoggiaturas.

—Hans Tischler, Practical Harmony, 1964

see triad illustration

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

• More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
• Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
• Advanced search features
• Ad free!