perfect pitch

American  

noun

1. absolute pitch.

---

perfect pitch British  

noun

1. another name (not in technical usage) for absolute pitch

---

Etymology

Origin of perfect pitch

First recorded in 1945–50

Compare meaning

How does perfect-pitch compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• perfect pitch vs. relative pitch

Example Sentences

There’s perfect pitch, and there’s whatever level of musical genius is possessed by the titular figure in “Tuner.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 21, 2026

His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing.

From BBC • Oct. 18, 2024

He elevated the gospel choir from second-class status and, blessed with perfect pitch and a soothing baritone, he often joined in the singing.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2024

For prosecutors, as McAfee once was, the opinion sings in perfect pitch about their special responsibilities to the judicial system:

From Salon • Mar. 16, 2024

You would have to hear it yourself to believe the perfect pitch, the harmony parts, how the volume rolled up and down.

From "The Secret Life of Bees" by Sue Monk Kidd