chord
UK: kɔːd | US: kɔːrd
n. a group of musical notes played together in harmony
n. a straight line joining two points on a curve (geometry)
n. an emotional response or resonance (e.g., "strike a chord")
The word "chord" traces back to the Latin chorda, meaning "string" (originally referring to gut strings used in musical instruments). It entered Middle English via Old French corde. Over time, its meaning expanded from the physical string to the harmonious sounds produced by multiple strings/notes played together. The geometric sense arose by analogy—a "chord" connects two points, much like a string connects two ends. The figurative use ("strike a chord") emerged from the idea of emotional resonance mirroring musical harmony.
The pianist played a beautiful C major chord.
The diameter is the longest chord in a circle.
Her speech about equality struck a chord with the audience.
He adjusted the guitar’s chords before the performance.
The chord progression in this song creates a melancholic mood.