Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

pentatonic

Adjective
/ˌpɛntəˈtɒnɪk/
Definition
A scale or musical system that consists of five notes per octave.
Examples
  • The pentatonic scale is often used in folk music.
  • Many cultures around the world have their own pentatonic scales.
  • When improvising, musicians frequently use the pentatonic scale for solos.
Meaning
Pentatonic refers to a type of musical scale that includes five different pitches, as opposed to the more standard seven-note scales commonly found in Western music.
Synonyms
  • Five-note scale
  • Pentachord