Inversion
The process of flipping an interval or rearranging the notes of a chord so a different note is in the bass.
Category
harmony
Origin
Latin
Length
195 words · 1 min read
About Inversion
Inversion operates on two levels in music theory. For intervals, inversion means moving the lower note up an octave (or the upper note down), transforming the interval: a third becomes a sixth, a second becomes a seventh, and so on — the two intervals always sum to nine.
More harmony terms
Dissonance
View all harmonyterms →Intervals or chords perceived as tense, unstable, and seeking resolution.
ChordThree or more notes sounded simultaneously
SuspensionA non-chord tone held over from the previous chord, creating tension
ContrappesoA niche orchestration concept referring to the balancing of harmonic weight between contrasting sonorities
TriadA three-note chord built from stacked thirds
v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →