Half-diminished seventh chord (ø7, dm, or diminished-minor)

Definition

A half-diminished seventh chord is a four-note chord consisting of a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and minor seventh. It is often used in jazz and has a melancholic and mysterious sound.

Analogy

Imagine you're at a party where everyone is wearing dark clothes and speaking softly. The half-diminished seventh chord is like the person sitting alone in the corner with their head down, creating an atmosphere of intrigue.

Related terms

Fully-diminished seventh chord (°7, dd, or diminished-diminished): This chord consists of a root, minor third, diminished fifth, and diminished seventh. It has an even more dissonant and tense sound than the half-diminished seventh chord.

Dominant seventh chord: This four-note chord consists of a root, major third, perfect fifth, and minor seventh. It has a strong and resolved sound commonly found in blues and rock music.

Minor triad: A three-note chord consisting of a root, minor third, and perfect fifth. It has a sad or melancholic quality often associated with classical music.