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
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The pairs are separated from standard Air Force 1s with their unique materials; each style is covered in tonal with premium suede uppers. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 19 Oct. 2025 They’re designed with slightly pointed toes, tonal stitching, and the brand’s signature Contour+ comfort technology for cushioned support throughout the day. Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025 The overwhelming reception has focused on the film’s unexpected humor and tonal originality, despite its true-crime origins. Clayton Davis, Variety, 16 Oct. 2025 Scavuzzo said these fabrics give brands creative freedom to explore a range from soft, tonal washes to vibrant, seasonal color. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 16 Oct. 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 21 Oct. 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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