Overtone

Pronunciation: /ˈoʊvərˌtoʊn/

Definitions of overtone

noun a subtle or subsidiary quality, implication, or connotation

Example Sentences

A1 I heard a high overtone in the music.

A2 The overtone of the conversation was positive and friendly.

B1 The speaker's words carried an underlying overtone of sarcasm.

B2 The painting had a subtle overtone of melancholy.

C1 The political speech had a strong overtone of nationalism.

C2 The novel's ending had a complex overtone of redemption and forgiveness.

Examples of overtone in a Sentence

formal The political speech had an overtone of diplomacy and compromise.

informal There was a subtle overtone of sarcasm in his voice.

slang The movie had an overtone of drama and suspense.

figurative Her actions had an overtone of betrayal, causing tension among the group.

Grammatical Forms of overtone

• past tense: overtoned
• plural: overtones
• comparative: more overtone
• superlative: most overtone
• present tense: overtones
• future tense: will overtone
• perfect tense: have overtone
• continuous tense: is overtoning
• singular: overtone
• positive degree: overtone
• infinitive: to overtone
• gerund: overtoning
• participle: overtoning

Origin and Evolution of overtone

First Known Use: 1250 year

Language of Origin: Old English

Story behind the word: The word 'overtone' originated from the Middle English word 'overton' which was derived from the Old English word 'ofertun'.

Evolution of the word: Initially, 'overtone' referred to a secondary or additional tone in music. Over time, the term expanded to signify hidden or underlying meanings in language or communication.