English Lexicon

Dissonance

/ˈdɪs.ə.nəns/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A lack of harmony among musical notes or a disagreement between ideas or beliefs.

    "The dissonance in the music created a sense of tension and unease."
  2. 2

    A state of conflict or inconsistency between beliefs, values, or actions.

    "Cognitive dissonance often occurs when one's actions contradict their beliefs."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The word 'dissonance' originates from the Latin 'dissonantia', which means 'discord' or 'disagreement'. It evolved through Middle French before entering English in the late 14th century, reflecting a shift from musical terminology to broader contexts of conflict and disagreement.

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