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polyphony

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /pəˈlɪfəni/

KK: /pɑˈlɪfəni/

noun
Definition

A type of music that has two or more different melodies played or sung at the same time.


Example

The choir performed a beautiful piece of polyphony that filled the church with rich harmonies.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever listened to a piece with polyphony?
Sloth B
Yeah, I love how multiple melodies can create such a rich sound.
Sloth A
It's fascinating how they blend together, isn't it?
Sloth B
Absolutely! It adds so much depth to the music.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
harmony
counterpoint
concord
Antonyms
monophony
dissonance
discord
Root Explanation

Polyphony → It is formed from "poly-" (meaning many) and "phone" (from Greek "phōnē", meaning voice or sound). The word "polyphony" refers to the combination of many voices or sounds in music.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') voices or sounds ('phone') coming together in harmony — that's what polyphony means.

Visually Confused Words
apophony
polony
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