Tenor

/ˈtɛnər/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The general meaning, sense, or content of something.

The tenor of the discussion was focused on economic reforms.

The character or tone of a piece of writing, speech, or event.

The tenor of her speech was optimistic and forward-looking.

A person's typical course of life or the prevailing trend in their actions.

His tenor in the company has always been one of integrity and loyalty.

In music, a range of male singing voice that is higher than baritone and lower than alto.

He trained for years to become a tenor, performing in operas across Europe.

A holder of a specific position or title, especially in a financial context.

The tenor of the bond was set at ten years at a fixed interest rate.

From Middle English, from Latin 'tenor', meaning 'to hold, to keep'.

tenor of the conversation

The general direction or theme of the discussion.

in tenor and spirit

In both the exact meaning and the intended message.

maintain the tenor

To keep the same tone or attitude in a discussion.

alto

A voice part higher than tenor but lower than soprano.

baritone

A voice part between tenor and bass.

soprano

The highest vocal range for females.

A person who stands out or is dominant in a particular area.

He's the tenor of the group, always leading the way.