Mode
A type of scale defined by a specific pattern of tones and semitones, historically derived from medieval church music.
Category
keys
Pronunciation
/məʊd/
Origin
Greek (modos, measure or manner)
Length
233 words · 2 min read
About Mode
Modes are scales built from the same set of notes as a major scale but starting on different degrees, producing seven distinct patterns with different characters. Starting on C gives the Ionian mode (identical to the major scale); starting on D gives Dorian; E gives Phrygian; F gives Lydian; G gives Mixolydian; A gives Aeolian (identical to the natural minor scale); and B gives Locrian.
More keys terms
Tonic
View all keysterms →The first and most important note of a key, serving as the central point of rest and resolution.
DominantThe fifth degree of a scale and the second most important tonal centre after the tonic.
DiatonicPertaining to the seven notes of a major or natural minor scale without chromatic alteration.
Relative keyA major and minor key that share the same key signature but have different tonics.
Relative Major and MinorA pair of keys — one major, one minor — sharing the same key signature
Synonyms
See Also
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v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →