intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 

-(ˌ)tō-

1

: manner of utterance

specifically : the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech

2

: something that is intoned

specifically : the opening tones of a Gregorian chant

3

: the act of intoning and especially of chanting

4

: the ability to play or sing notes in tune

intonational

ˌin-tə-ˈnā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-(ˌ)tō-

adjective

Examples of intonation in a Sentence

identical sentences, differing only in intonation

Recent Examples on the Web

Meanwhile, the right side is more broadly connected, suited for processing melodies and the intonation of speech. —Hysell V. Oviedo, The Conversation, 4 June 2025

When visitors have passed through, Margouleff has been the one to set up the guitars—adjusting the action and pickups and intonation. —Nick Paumgarten, New Yorker, 19 May 2025

As clips of White’s intonations spread across the internet, people mocked the Florida pastor — arguing that Trump’s Christian base was appearing more extreme, more unhinged by the day. —Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 6 June 2025

One intonation may express sadness, another comeuppance. —Jake Goodrick, Sacbee.com, 15 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for intonation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

intonation

noun

in·​to·​na·​tion ˌin-tə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of intoning

also : something intoned

2

: the ability to play or sing music in tune

3

: the rise and fall in pitch of the voice in speech

intonational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective