three-line octave

noun

: the musical octave beginning with and ascending from the second C above middle C see pitch illustration

Word History

Etymology

so called from the three accent marks of the symbol C′″ representing the second C above middle C

First Known Use

circa 1931, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of three-line octave was circa 1931

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!

Dictionary Entries Near three-line octave

Cite this Entry

“Three-line octave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/three-line%20octave. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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