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perfect cadence

noun
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Definition of perfect cadence

: authentic cadence also : a musical cadence in which the tonic's (see tonic entry 2 sense 2) root appears in both the bass and soprano

— called also full cadence, full close

— compare imperfect cadence sense 2

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First Known Use of perfect cadence

1636, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of perfect cadence was in 1636

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Cite this Entry

“Perfect cadence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/perfect%20cadence. Accessed 17 Jun. 2021.

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