four-line octave

noun

: the musical octave beginning with and ascending from the third C above middle C see pitch illustration

Word History

Etymology

so called from the four accent marks of the symbol C′′′′representing the third C above middle C

First Known Use

circa 1933, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of four-line octave was circa 1933

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Dictionary Entries Near four-line octave

Cite this Entry

“Four-line octave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/four-line%20octave. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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