tonal

adjective

ton·​al ˈtō-nᵊl How to pronounce tonal (audio)
Synonyms of tonalnext
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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No Such Thing as Too Many Knits Monochrome looks don’t have to be so dull—varying texture and proportions in a tonal palette keep things interesting, as demonstrated in Laura Manoogian’s resort collection. Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 13 Jan. 2026 In the mood for a serving of tonal dressing. Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 13 Jan. 2026 Dream Pairs Suede Mini Boots These mini boots are crafted in genuine suede with plush faux-fur lining, heel tabs, and rubber outsoles — and they’re accented with tonal stitched details. Jamie Allison Sanders, PEOPLE, 11 Jan. 2026 The sensor supports 13-bit output, allowing richer color representation and smoother tonal transitions. Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 10 Jan. 2026 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 15 Jan. 2026.

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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