Tritone
An interval of six semitones — exactly half an octave
Category
intervals
Pronunciation
TRY-tohn
Origin
Latin
Length
93 words · 1 min read
About Tritone
The tritone divides the octave precisely in two and comprises three whole tones. Its dissonant, restless sound earned it the medieval nickname "diabolus in musica" (the devil in music).
More intervals terms
Augmented
View all intervalsterms →An interval that has been widened by one semitone beyond its major or perfect form.
ThirdAn interval spanning three diatonic scale degrees
Compound IntervalAn interval wider than an octave, such as a ninth, tenth, or eleventh.
Minor ThirdAn interval spanning three semitones, often described as having a dark, melancholic, or tender quality.
SemitoneThe smallest interval in standard Western music
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →