Musical
ˈmjuːzɪkəl
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or producing music; characterized by harmony or melody.
ˈmjuːzɪkəl
Relating to or resembling music.
The musical notes flowed through the concert hall.
💡 Simply: If something's musical, it means it sounds or feels like music. Think of a catchy tune you can't get out of your head! It's like something that's got a special kind of rhythm or sound, like when a bird sings or when you play the piano.
👶 For kids: Something that is musical is like music! Like a song or a piano.
More Examples
She has a musical talent and can play several instruments.
The movie featured a musical score that enhanced the dramatic scenes.
How It's Used
"The musical score for the film was composed by a renowned artist."
"She has a musical voice, perfect for singing."
A stage, film, or television production featuring songs and spoken dialogue, often incorporating dance.
ˈmjuːzɪkəl
A play or film in which singing and dancing play an essential part.
The musical was a huge hit on Broadway.
💡 Simply: A musical is like a story that's told with singing and dancing! Think of your favorite Disney movie where everyone bursts into song. It's a fun way to tell a story, and it's often very lively and colorful.
👶 For kids: A musical is a show with singing and dancing, like a play with songs!
More Examples
She dreams of starring in a musical one day.
The movie 'La La Land' is a famous musical.
How It's Used
"They went to see a Broadway musical."
"The musical adaptation of the novel was a huge success."
Idioms & expressions
musical chairs
A game in which players race to sit on a chair, and when the music stops, one player is left standing and is eliminated. Metaphorically, it refers to a situation in which positions or roles change rapidly.
"The constant reshuffling of management positions was like a game of musical chairs."
From Middle French *musical* or directly from Latin *musicālis*, from *mūsica* (“music”).
The term 'musical' as a noun became prominent in the early 20th century, describing stage productions.
Memory tip
Think of a musical instrument – it creates musical sounds.
Word Origin
"music"