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tonal

adjective

ton·​al ˈtō-nᵊl How to pronounce tonal (audio)
1
: of or relating to tone, tonality, or tonicity
2
: having tonality
tonally adverb

Examples of tonal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The skirt was constructed from lightweight chiffon in the same tonal range, cut with long knife pleats. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 30 Nov. 2025 In our oral history, the actress cited the film's tonal shifts as a feature, not a bug. Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 29 Nov. 2025 Crafted in black suede with tonal hardware, this style features a soft sheepskin lining and an adjustable buckle for a secure, customized fit. Gabriela Garcia, Travel + Leisure, 27 Nov. 2025 The coffee donut chain is known for doing low-fi ads that pop on social with a tonal casualness to them. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 24 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for tonal

Word History

First Known Use

1776, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tonal was in 1776

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Cite this Entry

“Tonal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tonal. Accessed 2 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

tonal

adjective
ton·​al ˈtōn-ᵊl How to pronounce tonal (audio)
: of or relating to a musical tone
tonally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on tonal

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