perfect pitch

American  

noun

1. absolute pitch.

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perfect pitch British  

noun

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

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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

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

He sang Beatles songs in perfect pitch and shrieked in glee whenever a lighthouse came into view.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 31, 2023

In the same year, researchers using voice profile analysis found he had the "perfect pitch, volume and rhythm".

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2023

For the task proposed, it seemed, Dick had perfect pitch.

From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote