metronome

[ me-truh-nohm ]

noun

1. a mechanical or electrical instrument that makes repeated clicking sounds at an adjustable pace, used for marking rhythm, especially in practicing music.

metronome

/ ˌmɛtrəˈnɒmɪk; ˈmɛtrəˌnəʊm /

noun

1. a mechanical device which indicates the exact tempo of a piece of music by producing a clicking sound from a pendulum with an adjustable period of swing

Derived Forms

• metronomic, adjective

Other Words From

• met·ro·nom·ic [me-tr, uh, -, nom, -ik], metro·nomi·cal adjective
• metro·nomi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of metronome¹

1810–20; metro- ¹ + -nome < Greek nómos rule, law

Word History and Origins

Origin of metronome¹

C19: from Greek metron measure + nomos rule, law

Example Sentences

"He was able to break up attacks, utilise Ilkay Gundogan and Kevin de Bruyne in more advanced positions, and be the metronome in midfield - never passing for passing's sake but there to help open up spaces and be available to support others."

From BBC

We don’t play with a metronome, I only have one onstage so I can look at it and count in at the right tempo.

From Los Angeles Times

The heavy beats work best as a metronome for the tennis fans in the stands whipping their heads between volleys, although for a while, I was half-convinced that they were also the hold music filling Art’s head whenever his wife wasn’t lecturing him about his game.

From Los Angeles Times

Radio Télé Métronome reported that the gangs kidnapped everyone aboard the ship and stole some 10,000 sacks of rice out of the 60,000 sacks it was carrying.

From Seattle Times

Wang and Bender took turns rotating the children to the left and right in an office chair to the beat of a metronome.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• timer