Music

Definition

Music is a noun that refers to the art or science of arranging sounds in time to produce a composition through elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and timbre. It is often created and performed for entertainment, artistic expression, or cultural purposes.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmjuː.zɪk/
• Respelling: MYOO-zik

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmjuː.zɪk/
• Respelling: MYOO-zik

Etymology

The word "music" originates from the Greek "mousikē" (τέχνη), meaning "art of the Muses," referring to the creative and artistic endeavors associated with the nine Muses of Greek mythology. It entered Old French as "musique" and later Middle English as "musike."

Derivatives

• Musical (adjective)
• Musician (noun)
• Musicology (noun)
• Musically (adverb)
• Musicless (adjective)

Synonyms

• Melody
• Harmony
• Soundtrack

Antonyms

• Silence
• Noise (contextual)
• None

Usage

The term "music" is commonly used to describe both the act of producing sound for artistic purposes and the compositions themselves. For example: "She listens to classical music while studying," or "The band performed live music at the event."

Related Terms

• Song: A short piece of music with lyrics.
• Instrument: A device used to produce musical sounds.
• Composition: A piece of music created by a composer.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The art of arranging sounds in time: Refers to the creation of structured compositions through melody, harmony, and rhythm.
  • Example: "She has a deep appreciation for orchestral music."
• Vocal or instrumental sounds combined to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression: Refers to performed or recorded compositions.
  • Example: "The live music at the wedding was enchanting."
• A particular category or genre of sound: Indicates a specific style, such as jazz, classical, or pop.
  • Example: "His favorite music genre is rock."