root position

noun

Music.

1. the position of a triad in which the root is in the bass.

root position

noun

1. music the vertical distribution of the written notes of a chord in which the root of the chord is in the bass See position inversion

Word History and Origins

Origin of root position¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

In root position, the root, which is the note that names the chord, is the lowest note.

From Literature

Write a triad in root position using each root given.

From Literature

Rewrite each chord in root position, and name the original position of the chord.

From Literature

So the simplest way to write a triad is as a stack of thirds, in root position.

From Literature

Now see if you can identify these chords that are not necessarily in root position.

From Literature