Overtones
Definition
Overtones are higher-pitched frequencies that are produced along with the fundamental frequency when an instrument or voice plays or sings a note.
Analogy
Imagine playing a guitar string and plucking it gently. You not only hear the main pitch but also faintly hear other higher pitches vibrating within it. These additional pitches are like overtones.
Related terms
Harmonics: Harmonics are specific overtones that occur at integer multiples of the fundamental frequency.
Timbre: Timbre refers to the unique quality or color of sound produced by different instruments or voices, including variations in overtone content.
Resonance: Resonance occurs when an object vibrates sympathetically with another vibrating object, amplifying certain frequencies and producing rich overtones.
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