Fully Diminished Seventh Chords

Definition

Fully diminished seventh chords are four-note chords consisting of a diminished triad (root, minor third, and diminished fifth) with an added diminished seventh. They are often used to create tension and lead to resolution in music.

Related terms

Half-Diminished Seventh Chords: These chords are similar to fully diminished seventh chords but have a major seventh instead of a diminished seventh. They still create tension but with a slightly different character.

Root Position viio7 Chords: These chords are also known as dominant seventh flat five chords. They consist of a root, major third, diminished fifth, and minor seventh. While similar to fully diminished seventh chords, they have different harmonic functions in music.

Leading Tone: The leading tone is the note one half step below the tonic in a key. It is often used to create tension and lead into the tonic chord or key center.