Dictionary
dissonance
noun dis·so·nance \ˈdi-sə-nən(t)s\
Definition of DISSONANCE
1
a : lack of agreement; especially : inconsistency between the beliefs one holds or between one's actions and one's beliefs — compare cognitive dissonance b : an instance of such inconsistency or disagreement
2
: a mingling of discordant sounds; especially : a clashing or unresolved musical interval or chord
See dissonance defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of DISSONANCE
15th century
Related to DISSONANCE
- Synonyms
- conflict, disaccord, discordance, discordancy, disharmony, dissension (also dissention), dissent, dissidence, discord, disunion, disunity, division, friction, infighting, inharmony, schism, strife, variance, war, warfare
DISSONANCE Defined for Kids
dissonance
noun dis·so·nance \ˈdi-sə-nəns\
Definition of DISSONANCE for Kids
: an unpleasant combination of musical sounds
Medical Dictionary
dissonance
noun dis·so·nance \ˈdis-ə-nən(t)s\
Medical Definition of DISSONANCE
: inconsistency between the beliefs one holds or between one's actions and one's beliefs—see cognitive dissonance
Learn More About DISSONANCE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: dissonance treatmentPrevious Word in the Dictionary: dissolving shutterAll Words Near: dissonance
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up dissonance? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).