intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce intonation (audio)
-(ˌ)tō-
Synonyms of intonationnext
1
: manner of utterance
specifically : the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech
2
: something that is intoned
specifically : the opening tones of a Gregorian chant
3
: the act of intoning and especially of chanting
4
: the ability to play or sing notes in tune
intonational
ˌin-tə-ˈnā-sh(ə-)nəl How to pronounce intonation (audio)
-(ˌ)tō-
adjective

Examples of intonation in a Sentence

identical sentences, differing only in intonation
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.
The video playfully imitates the exaggerated intonations and repetitive phrases often heard in an influencer's product placement videos. — Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025 But in your case, your ability to capture the intonation and inflection of Belle’s Australian accent is almost uncanny. — Max Gao, Variety, 7 Feb. 2025 Malkovich’s subdued and convincing performance, defined by a low and drawn-out intonation, chafes against Green’s verbose screenplay. — Lovia Gyarkye, The Hollywood Reporter, 28 Jan. 2025 From virtual assistants that can hold conversations with natural intonation to digital avatars that replicate human facial expressions, AI is becoming more human-like in its appearance and behavior. — Oguz A. Acar, anne-Kathrin Klesse, mirjam A. Tuk, Harvard Business Review, 7 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for intonation

Word History

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of intonation was in 1620

Rhymes for intonation

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Browse Nearby Words

intonation
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Cite this Entry

“Intonation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intonation. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

intonation

noun
in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce intonation (audio)
1
: the act of intoning
also : something intoned
2
: the ability to play or sing music in tune
3
: the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech
intonational
-shnəl How to pronounce intonation (audio)
-shən-ᵊl
adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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