WordGarden.ionote
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /nˈəʊt/
US
- /ˈnoʊt/
Meanings
Noun
a short written message, record, or reminder
a single musical sound or the written sign for it
a brief comment, observation, or warning
More meaningsFewer meanings
a paper money bill; a banknote
Verb
to notice or observe something
to write down or record something
Beyond the definition
A "note" can mean several everyday things. It might be a short written message, like "Please pick up milk," or a record of important information, like the notes you take in class or during a meeting. In music, a note is a single sound with a certain pitch, so you can hear a high note or play notes on a piano.
The word can also be used as a verb. To note something means to notice it or write it down. In some cases, a banknote is a piece of paper money. So when you see or hear the word "note," the meaning usually depends on whether someone is writing, listening, studying, or paying attention.
The word "note" is surprisingly versatile, holding several distinct meanings depending on context. Most commonly, a note refers to a brief written message or reminder. Think of a sticky note on your fridge, or a quick handwritten note passed in class: "Don't forget the meeting!" These notes serve as simple communications or memory aids.
However, "note" also describes a record of information—like the detailed notes you take during a lecture or a business meeting. These are more formal and comprehensive than a quick reminder. You might say, "She meticulously took notes on every detail."
In music, a note is a symbol representing a specific pitch and duration of sound. Musicians read and play notes to create melodies and harmonies. A high note, a low note, or a sustained note—all contribute to the musical landscape.
Beyond these core meanings, "note" can refer to a bank note (a form of currency) or even a specific quality or "flavor" in something, such as a "note of vanilla" in a perfume or wine. To note something as a verb is to pay attention to it, observe it, or record it. We also use the word in expressions of acknowledgment, such as sending a "note of thanks" to show gratitude.
So, whether you're scribbling a reminder, composing a melody, recording information, or simply acknowledging someone's kindness, the word "note" encompasses a wide range of communication and observation—all centered around capturing and conveying information in various forms.
Examples
- 1
Written message
She left a note on the kitchen table.
- 2
Meeting notes
I take notes during meetings so I can remember the main points.
- 3
Thank-you note
Could you write a quick thank-you note to your aunt?
- 4
Doctor's note
The school needs a note from your doctor before you can return to sports.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Write it down
Can you note down the reference number before you call them?
- Phrasenote down
write something so you do not forget it
- 6
Formal notice
Please note that the office will be closed on Friday.
- Phraseplease note that
please pay attention to this information
- 7
Report language
The report notes that prices have risen sharply this year.
- Patternnote that + fact
say or mention it officially
- 8
Remembering
Make a mental note to lock the back door tonight.
- Phrasemake a mental note
try to remember something
- 9
Music
She played the first note softly on the piano.
- 10
Warning
Let me add a note of caution before we make a decision.
- Phrasea note of caution
a warning or careful comment
- 11
Topic shift
On a happier note, we finally found a new apartment.
- Phraseon a happier note
changing to a happier topic
- 12
Shared information
We compared notes after the interview and realized they had asked us the same questions.
- Phrasecompare notes
talk about what each person saw, heard, or learned
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- notenounverb
Forms
- notespluralnounverb
- notedpast tenseverbnoun
- noting-ing formverbnoun