figured bass

[ beys ]

noun

, Music.

1. a bass part in which the notes have numbers under them indicating the chords to be played.

figured bass

/ beɪs /

noun

1. a shorthand method of indicating a thorough-bass part in which each bass note is accompanied by figures indicating the intervals to be played in the chord above it in the realization

Word History and Origins

Origin of figured bass¹

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

This volume forms a key to "Exercises in Figured Bass" by the same author (see above).

From Project Gutenberg

During the seventeenth century, sonatas were written for various instruments, with a figured bass for the cembalo.

From Project Gutenberg

Viadana is said to have been the first to use what is called a basso continuo, and even the figured bass.

From Project Gutenberg

Instead of the national game the class was wrestling with figured bass and the art of descant, and again it groaned aloud.

From Project Gutenberg

Likewise the notation of a Chorale with a figured bass should not be omitted.

From Project Gutenberg