Definition

Related to a style of music that uses twelve different notes in a specific order, rather than the traditional scale of eight notes.

Example

The composer experimented with dodecaphonic techniques to create a unique sound.

Conversation

I just listened to a really interesting piece of music that was dodecaphonic.

Oh really? I've heard about that style but never actually listened to it.

It was fascinating how they used all twelve tones without a clear key signature.

That sounds challenging but also really creative!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dodecaphonic → It is formed from "dodeca-" (from Greek "dōdeka", meaning twelve) and "phonic" (from Greek "phōnē", meaning sound). The word refers to a musical system that uses twelve tones as its basis.

Memory Tip

Think of the Greek word for twelve ('dodeca-') and sound ('phonic') to remember that 'dodecaphonic' relates to a system of music based on twelve distinct tones.

Visually Confused Words