intonation
|in/to/na/tion|
B2
/ˌɪn.təˈneɪ.ʃən/
voice modulation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'intonation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'intonare,' where 'in-' meant 'in' and 'tonare' meant 'to thunder.'
Historical Evolution
'intonare' transformed into the French word 'intonation,' and eventually became the modern English word 'intonation' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to thunder or sound,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the rise and fall of the voice in speaking.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the rise and fall of the voice in speaking, especially as this affects the meaning of what is being said.
Her intonation made it clear she was asking a question.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41