Timbre

//ˈtæmbɹə// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    The quality of a sound independent of its pitch and volume. countable, uncountable

    "It was a hard whisper to catch at first, since the grey moustache concealed all movements of the lips, and something in its timbre disturbed me greatly; but by concentrating my attention I could soon make out its purport surprisingly well."

  2. 2
    (music) the distinctive property of a complex sound (a voice or noise or musical sound) wordnet
  3. 3
    The pitch of a sound as heard by the ear, described relative to its absolute pitch. countable, uncountable

    "When someone speaks after inhaling helium, his voice has a higher timbre. With sulfur hexafluoride, the result is a lower timbre."

  4. 4
    The crest on a (helmet atop a) coat of arms. countable, uncommon, uncountable

    "Quarterly the First quarter Siluer …, The second Siluer a Cheueron gules betweene three Castles Sables And to his timbre vpon his healme, an Elephants head in his proper Colours […]"

Etymology

From French timbre, ultimately from Ancient Greek τύμπανον (túmpanon, “drum”). Doublet of tympanum, timpani, timbal, and tymbal.

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