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

Time Traveler
The first known use of six-four chord was in 1850

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Dictionary Entries Near six-four chord

sixfold

six-four chord

six-gilled shark

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Cite this Entry

“Six-four chord.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/six-four%20chord. Accessed 25 Nov. 2024.

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