musical

[myoo-zi-kuhl]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or producing music.

   a musical instrument.

   Synonyms: lyric, sweet, melodic, dulcet, tuneful

2. of the nature of or resembling music; melodious; harmonious.

3. fond of or skilled in music.

4. set to or accompanied by music.

   a musical entertainment.

noun

1. a play or movie in which the storyline is interspersed with or developed by songs, dances, and the like.

musical

/ ˈmjuːzɪkəl /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or used in music

   a musical instrument

2. harmonious; melodious

   musical laughter

3. talented in or fond of music

4. involving or set to music

   a musical evening

noun

1. short for musical comedy

musical

1. A play or film that contains musical numbers. Musicals can be comedic (see musical comedy) or serious in tone, such as Porgy and Bess.

Other Word Forms

• musically adverb
• musicality noun
• musicalness noun
• antimusical adjective
• antimusically adverb
• antimusicalness noun
• nonmusical adjective
• nonmusically adverb
• nonmusicalness noun
• premusical adjective
• premusically adverb
• quasi-musical adjective
• quasi-musically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of musical¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English; from Medieval Latin mūsicālis; music, -al ¹

Example Sentences

But it’s also completely unsurprising coming from Mike Scott, the leader of the musical ensemble known as The Waterboys.

From Salon

Events are also set to be held on the lakeside including musical performances on the final weekend.

From BBC

This year’s events range from musical performances to textile workshops to educational talks not just on the 13th but throughout the month of October.

From Los Angeles Times

Emma Fawcett, course leader of dance and musical theatre at York College, said fundraising in her former student's memory meant "everything" to her.

From BBC

In his monologue, Bad Bunny said the reason he wasn’t serving as musical guest like the last time he hosted was that he needed to rest.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• choral 
• melodic 
• operatic 
• rhythmic 
• symphonic 
• vocal