Timbre

Definitions

1. The quality of a sound independent of its pitch and volume.
   countable, uncountable
2. The pitch of a sound as heard by the ear, described relative to its absolute pitch.
   countable, uncountable
3. The crest on a (helmet atop a) coat of arms.
   countable, uncommon, uncountable

Equivalents

Examples

“It was a hard whisper⟳ to catch⟳ at first, since the grey moustache concealed all movements of the lips, and something in its timbre disturbed me greatly; but by concentrating my attention I could soon make⟳ out its purport surprisingly well.”

“When someone speaks after inhaling helium, his voice has a higher timbre. With sulfur hexafluoride, the result⟳ is a lower timbre.”

“Quarterly the First quarter Siluer …, The second Siluer a Cheueron gules betweene three Castles Sables And to his timbre vpon his healme, an Elephants head in his proper Colours […]”

“The basilican pavilion [...] has frequently appeared on banners since the 13th century, but the pope has used it only rarely, as a timbre or crest above his coat of ARMS (a few examples exist⟳ from the time of MARTIN V).”

CEFR level