Definition

Relating to a musical scale that uses only the seven notes of a standard scale without any extra notes or alterations.

Example

The song is composed using a diatonic scale, which gives it a traditional sound.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how a diatonic scale works in music?

Yeah, it's interesting how it uses just seven notes without any chromatic changes.

Exactly! I love how diatonic scales create such a clear sound.

Me too! They really help in making melodies feel more cohesive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diatonic → It is formed from "dia-" (meaning through or across) and "tonos" (meaning tone or tension). The term diatonic refers to a scale that spans through a series of tones, typically consisting of seven distinct pitches.

Memory Tip

Think of 'through' ('dia-') as moving across a series of 'tones' ('tonos') — that's why diatonic relates to a scale that includes a range of tones.

Visually Confused Words