The term “harmony” is derived from the Greek word “harmonia,” which originally referred to the joining or fitting together of different parts.
Etymology:
1. Greek
- Word: harmonia
- Meaning: The joining or fitting together of different parts
2. Latin (c. 2nd century BCE to 2nd century CE)
- Term: harmonia
- Meaning:
- A musical term referring to the combination of tones or chords that sound pleasing together.
- A broader concept encompassing the balance, agreement, or concord of different elements or aspects.
- Derived from: Greek harmonia
3. Middle English (c. 12th to 15th century CE)
- Term: harmony
- Meaning:
- In music, the combination of tones or chords that sound pleasing together.
- In a broader sense, the state of being in agreement, concord, or balance with others or within oneself.
- Derived from: Latin harmonia
4. Modern English (from 15th century CE to present)
- Term: Harmony
- Meaning:
- In music, the simultaneous combination of tones or chords that sound pleasing to the ear.
- In a broader sense, the state of peaceful coexistence, agreement, or balance among different elements or individuals.
Summary:
The word “harmony” originates from the Greek word “harmonia,” which initially referred to the joining or fitting together of different parts. In Latin, it expanded to encompass both musical harmony and a broader concept of balance, agreement, or concord. In Middle English and Modern English, “harmony” retains its musical connotation while also referring to a state of agreement, concord, or balance among different elements or individuals.