passing note

noun

, Music.

1. a note that is foreign to a harmony and is introduced between two successive chord tones in order to produce a melodic transition.

passing note

noun

1. music a nonharmonic note through which a melody passes from one harmonic note to the next Compare auxiliary note

Word History and Origins

Origin of passing note¹

First recorded in 1720–30

Example Sentences

Restricting phone use during school hours may remove a source of classroom distraction — kids might have to resort to passing notes! — but it doesn’t solve the “problem” of social media.

From Los Angeles Times

There, he said, Trump and Blanche “are always laughing and joking and passing notes,” a commentary, perhaps, on how that case, before the Trump-appointed Judge Aileen Cannon, is proceeding more to the former president’s liking.

From Salon

Trump sat quietly while listening to opening statements, occasionally passing notes to his lawyers and whispering in their ears.

From Seattle Times

At times, he was seen whispering and passing notes with Todd Blanche, his lead attorney.

From Seattle Times

Mr Trump's lawyers have repeatedly told Judge Engoron they believe his clerk is displaying bias, and claim that she is passing notes or rolling her eyes.

From BBC