Definition

A musical interval that is equal to half of a whole tone, which is the smallest distance between two notes in Western music.

Example

In music theory, a semitone is the smallest interval used in the Western scale, such as the distance between C and C♯.

Conversation

Have you ever tried playing a song that uses a semitone?

Yeah, it really adds some interesting tension to the music.

I love how a semitone can change the mood of a piece completely.

Absolutely! It’s amazing what a little half step can do.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Semitone** → It is formed from "semi-" (from Latin *semi*, meaning half) and "tone" (from Greek *tonos*, meaning a stretch or tension, often referring to sound). The word "semitone" refers to half a tone in music, indicating a small interval between pitches.

Memory Tip

Think of 'half' ('semi-') of a 'tone' in music — that's what a semitone represents.

Visually Confused Words