Definition

Adverb 1. In a manner relating to or characterized by melody: Pertaining to the pleasing succession of musical notes that form a tune or theme. 2. With respect to the melodic aspect of music: Concerning the horizontal, linear aspect of music (the tune), as opposed to harmony or rhythm.

Usage

The adverb "melodically" is used to describe how a piece of music is composed, performed, or perceived in terms of its melody. It modifies verbs related to musical action (e.g., play, sing, compose, develop).

Examples

• The singer performed the complex aria melodically and with great emotion.
• This section of the composition is less interesting rhythmically but very rich melodically.
• The two instruments are intertwined melodically, creating a beautiful duet.

Advanced Usage

• "Melodically driven": Used to describe music where the melody is the primary, leading element.
  • His songwriting is melodically driven, focusing on strong, memorable tunes.
• "Melodically consonant/dissonant": Describes how pleasing or tense a sequence of notes is.
  • The composer used a melodically dissonant line to create a sense of unease.

Variants and Related Words

• Melodic (adjective): Pertaining to or having melody; melodious.
  • The flute played a beautiful melodic line.
• Melody (noun): A sequence of single notes that is musically satisfying; a tune.
  • She hummed the melody from the old song.
• Melodious (adjective): Of sound, especially music, pleasing to the ear; tuneful.
  • The bird's song was surprisingly melodious.

Synonyms

• Tunefully
• Musically (in the context of melody)

Antonyms

• Harmonically (with respect to harmony)
• Rhythmically (with respect to rhythm)
• Atonally (lacking a tonal center or key, often also lacking a conventional melody)

Adverb

1. with respect to melody
   • melodically interesting themes