tonal

adjective

ton·​al ˈtō-nᵊl How to pronounce tonal (audio)
1
: of or relating to tone, tonality, or tonicity
2
: having tonality
tonally adverb

Examples of tonal 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.
This loft echoes the area’s artistic roots with bright peachy paint accentuated by tonal artwork and accents. Elise Taylor, Vogue, 19 Mar. 2025 Those qualities don’t necessarily dominate Music, which is more interested in reveling in the tonal breadth of the voice. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 18 Mar. 2025 Failing To Consider Leadership's Role Human-centric communication can’t be achieved through tonal changes in messaging or a shift in strategy. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 17 Mar. 2025 There’s a perfect tonal pairing here since Looney Tunes hit their peak during the space race and UFO craze of the late '50s and '60s. Jeff Spry, Space.com, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tonal

Word History

First Known Use

1776, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tonal was in 1776

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Cite this Entry

“Tonal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tonal. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

tonal

adjective
ton·​al ˈtōn-ᵊl How to pronounce tonal (audio)
: of or relating to a musical tone
tonally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on tonal

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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