Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

arpeggiate

verb

/ɑːrˈpɛdʒ.i.eɪt/

Definition

To play the notes of a chord in succession, rather than simultaneously.

Examples

The pianist chose to arpeggiate the chord, giving the piece a delicate texture.
When you arpeggiate a C major chord, you play C, E, and G one after the other instead of all at once.
The guitarist can arpeggiate the notes to add a layer of complexity to the song.

Meaning

In music, arpeggiating means breaking a chord into its individual notes and playing them in a sequence, creating a flowing sound rather than a block of harmony.