Unison | Definition of unison by Merriam-Webster

Definition of UNISON

1

a : identity in musical pitch; specifically : the interval of a perfect prime

b : the state of being so tuned or sounded

c : the writing, playing, or singing of parts in a musical passage at the same pitch or in octaves

2

: a harmonious agreement or union : concord

— unison adjective

— in unison

1

: in perfect agreement : so as to harmonize exactly <a class reciting in unison>

2

: at the same time : simultaneously

See unison defined for English-language learners

See unison defined for kids

Origin of UNISON

Middle English unisoun, from Middle French unisson, from Medieval Latin unisonus having the same sound, from Latin uni- + sonus sound — more at sound

First Known Use: 15th century

Related to UNISON

Synonyms: accord, concurrence, concurrency, consensus, unanimity, agreement

Antonyms: conflict, disagreement, dissensus

Other Music Terms

cacophony, chorister, concerto, counterpoint, madrigal, obbligato, presto, presto, refrain, riff, segue

Definition of UNISON for Kids

: the state of being tuned or sounded at the same pitch or at an octave

— in unison

1

: in exact agreement <They are in unison as to what to do next.>

2

: at the same time <… they all stuck their tongues out in unison … — Louise Fitzhugh, Harriet the Spy>

Learn More About UNISON

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for "unison"

Spanish Central: Spanish translation of "unison"

Nglish: Translation of "unison" for Spanish speakers

Britannica English: Translation of "unison" for Arabic speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about "unison"

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: unisonalPrevious Word in the Dictionary: unisexualAll Words Near: unison

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up unison? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

View Seen & Heard Highlights from Around the Site