overtone

noun

over·​tone ˈō-vər-ˌtōn 

1

a

: one of the higher tones produced simultaneously with the fundamental and that with the fundamental comprise a complex musical tone : harmonic sense 1a

b

: harmonic sense 2

2

: the color of the light reflected (as by a paint)

3

: a secondary effect, quality, or meaning : suggestion, connotation

Examples of overtone in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The bright coral color has rose overtones before fading to ivory. —Steve Bender, Southern Living, 22 May 2024

Not all of the recent attacks against Congress or staff have political overtones. —Scott MacFarlane, CBS News, 20 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1867, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

overtone

noun

over·​tone -ˌtōn 

1

: any of a series of higher tones related to and produced along with a base tone that make up the whole sound of a musical tone

2

: an accompanying result, quality, or meaning : suggestion

the words carried an overtone of menace

Medical Definition

overtone

noun

over·​tone ˈō-vər-ˌtōn 

: one of the higher tones produced simultaneously with the fundamental and that with the fundamental comprise a complex musical tone