© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

intone

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˈtoʊn/

KK: /ɪnˈtoʊn/

intransitive verb
Definition

To speak or sing in a way that has a musical quality or a specific tone.


Example

She began to intone the ancient chant, filling the room with a melodic sound.


Tense Forms

Past: intoned

Past Participle: intoned


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard her intone those beautiful songs?
Sloth B
Yes, it's like she brings the lyrics to life!
Sloth A
I know! The way she can intone each note is mesmerizing.
Sloth B
Totally, it makes the performance so much more engaging.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chant
sing
recite
Antonyms
mumble
whisper
shout
transitive verb
Definition

To say or recite something in a musical or singing voice, often with a specific tone or pitch.


Example

The teacher asked the students to intone the poem during the recital.


Tense Forms

Past: intoned

Past Participle: intoned


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear how she intoned her speech at the event yesterday?
Sloth B
Yes, it was really captivating and made everything sound more dramatic.
Sloth A
I wish I could intone like that; it adds so much emotion to the words.
Root Explanation

Intone is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "tonare" (meaning to sound or thunder). The word describes the act of producing a sound or voice in a particular manner, often with a specific pitch or tone.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sounding' ('tonare') something 'into' ('in-') a specific pitch — that's why intone means to vocalize in a certain tone.

Visually Confused Words
inone
tinstone
inkstone
untone
ionone
intine
indone
entone
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Totally! It's all about practice and finding the right rhythm.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chant
recite
vocalize
Antonyms
mumble
whisper
shout