tenor clef

noun

: the C clef when placed on the musical staff to indicate that middle C is on the fourth line from the bottom of the staff see clef illustration

Word History

Etymology

so called from the fact that such a staff is most convenient for writing notes within the tenor voice range

First Known Use

1714, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tenor clef was in 1714

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Dictionary Entries Near tenor clef

tenor

tenor clef

tenore

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Tenor clef.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tenor%20clef. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

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