intonation
noun
in·to·na·tion
ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 
-(ˌ)tō-
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
Examples of intonation in a Sentence
identical sentences, differing only in intonation
Recent Examples on the Web
Clarity of thought and expression will become democratized, and the rich knowledge and ideas will be shared in the owner’s own voice and intonations.
—
Beena Ammanath, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2024
The notes began springing out with a glib, dead intonation.
—Maggie Doherty, The New Yorker, 26 Feb. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intonation 
Beena Ammanath, Forbes, 13 Feb. 2024
The notes began springing out with a glib, dead intonation.
—Maggie Doherty, The New Yorker, 26 Feb. 2024
See all Example Sentences for intonation
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'intonation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near intonation
Cite this Entry
“Intonation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/intonation. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
intonation
noun
in·to·na·tion
ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən
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
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