Synonyms of melody

melody

noun

ˈme-lə-dē 

as in song

a rhythmic series of musical tones arranged to give a pleasing effect

this week, we'll learn to play a more complicated melody on the saxophone

Synonyms & Similar Words

• song
• tune
• hymn
• lyric
• rhythm
• warble
• ballad
• air
• strain
• lay
• cadence
• meter
• descant
• ditty
• madrigal
• measure

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of melody

Tenpenny powered through a range of vocals — the lead, harmonies and some answer lines that provided counter melodies. — Tom Roland, Billboard, 2 Oct. 2026

The album folded electronic textures, orchestral flourishes, studio experimentation and huge melodies into songs that wrestled with politics, mortality, love, fear and the strange business of being alive. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 30 Sep. 2026

With a soprano voice that’s sharp but never shrill, O’Donovan can levitate a heartfelt melody over just about any kind of accompaniment. — Mark Jenkins, Washington Post, 30 Sep. 2026

Composers of both classical and popular music study what came before them, absorbing and reworking earlier melodies, harmonies, rhythms, and techniques. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026