undiatonic

/ˌʌndiˈætɒnɪk, ʌnˈdɪætɒnɪk/

Definitions

1. adjective

Not diatonic, especially in music; not having a musical scale with a consistent pattern of whole and half steps.

“The composer’s use of undiatonic melodies added a sense of tension to the composition.”

2. noun

A scale or musical passage that does not follow a diatonic pattern.

“The piece featured an undiatonic section in the middle, creating a sense of surprise for the listener.”

Synonyms

  • atonal
  • chromatic

Antonyms

  • diatonic
  • tonal