tablature

[ tab-luh-cher, -choor ]

noun

1. Music. any of various systems of music notation using letters, numbers, or other signs to indicate the strings, frets, keys, etc., to be played.
2. a tabular space, surface, or structure.

tablature

/ ˈtæblətʃə /

noun

1. music any of a number of forms of musical notation, esp for playing the lute, consisting of letters and signs indicating rhythm and fingering
2. an engraved or painted tablet or other flat surface

Word History and Origins

Origin of tablature¹

1565–75; < Middle French, Latinization (influenced by Latin tabula board) of Italian intavolatura, derivative of intavolare to put on a board, score

Word History and Origins

Origin of tablature¹

C16: from French, ultimately from Latin tabulātum wooden floor, from tabula a plank

Example Sentences

As Walther sings Sachs takes it down in tablature, calling out to him what sections are next required.

From Project Gutenberg

This set of thoughts is like the tablature prescribed to the singing animal above mentioned.

From Project Gutenberg

Robinson gives instructions for learning to play the cittern and for reading the tablature.

From Project Gutenberg

It may be necessary to say, that these tunes are written in an obsolete notation called tablature.

From Project Gutenberg

The first time he asked admittance to show you the tablature, and you did not want to receive him, I persuaded you to do so.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• songbook