Definition of melodic

The word "melodic" originates from the Greek word "melodia", which means "singing" or "song". This term was later adopted into Latin as "melodia", and from there it was borrowed into various European languages. In the 15th century, the term "melodic" emerged in English, initially referring to a tune or a song. In music theory, "melodic" refers to the harmonious succession of pitches in a musical composition. It describes the qualities of a musical line, such as rhythm, contour, and shape, that create a sense of melody. In essence, a melodic line is a sequence of pitches that have a natural flow, creating a sense of tension and release, and evoking an emotional response from the listener. Throughout history, the concept of melody has been central to music-making, and the word "melodic" continues to play a vital role in music theory, composition, and criticism.