Minor Third
An interval spanning three semitones, often described as having a dark, melancholic, or tender quality.
Category
intervals
Pronunciation
/ˈmaɪnə θɜːd/
Origin
Latin (tertius, third)
Length
200 words · 1 min read
About Minor Third
The minor third is the interval from C to E-flat, or from A to C, and it is the defining interval of the minor triad and minor tonality. Its characteristic sound — often described as sad, wistful, or introspective — pervades countless melodies and harmonies across all genres.
More intervals terms
Augmented
View all intervalsterms →An interval that has been widened by one semitone beyond its major or perfect form.
Minor SecondAn interval spanning one semitone, the smallest step in standard Western music.
Major SecondAn interval spanning two semitones, equivalent to a whole tone or whole step.
FifthThe interval spanning five scale degrees, most commonly the perfect fifth.
SemitoneThe smallest interval in standard Western music
Antonyms
See Also
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v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →