How Do You Spell BASS?

Pronunciation: [bˈe͡ɪs] (IPA)

The word "bass" is a homograph, meaning it can have two different meanings and therefore pronunciations. When referring to the low-pitched musical instrument, it is pronounced as /beɪs/ with a long "a" sound. However, when referring to a type of fish, it is pronounced as /bæs/ with a short "a" sound. This is because the spelling of the word is based on its origin and different linguistic rules apply. Therefore, context is important when determining the correct pronunciation of the word "bass".

Meaning and Definition
Top Common Misspellings
Other Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
Plural
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BASS Meaning and Definition

  1. Bass, primarily pronounced as "bays," can be a noun with multiple interconnected meanings. Firstly, bass refers to a type of fish belonging to the family Moronidae, commonly found in both freshwater and marine environments. These fish are known for their elongated bodies, large mouths, and strong jaws, making them popular game fish among anglers. They are often sought after for their culinary value due to their flavorful and firm meat.

    Secondly, bass is a term used in music to denote the lower range of musical instruments or voices. It refers to a deep, low-pitched sound produced by instruments like the double bass or instruments in the bassoon or tuba family. Bass instruments provide the foundation and rhythm in many musical compositions, lending them a rich and resonant quality.

    Additionally, bass is utilized to describe the lowest part in a composition for five voices or instruments. In choral music, for example, the bass voice typically sings the lowest part, creating a harmonic balance with the other voices.

    Lastly, bass can also refer to a type of woodwind instrument, the bassoon. This double-reed instrument produces a deep, mellow sound and is commonly used in orchestras and chamber ensembles.

    Overall, bass encompasses a range of meanings, whether it refers to a type of fish, the lower range of musical instruments or voices, the lowest part in a musical composition, or a specific woodwind instrument.

  2. • Low, deep, grave.
    • The lowest part in a harmonised musical composition.
    • A mat made of bast; a door-mat.
    • A name given to several species of the perch.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for BASS *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for BASS

Etymology of BASS

The word "bass" has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old English word "bærs". It is believed to have been influenced by the Old Norse word "barr", meaning "edge" or "rim". Eventually, the Middle English term "bærs" evolved to "bass", referring to the deepest range of musical instruments or voices. The word can be traced back to its Proto-Germanic root "bersaz" or "bersō", which relates to the notion of prominence or projection.

Idioms with the word BASS

  • bass-ackward The idiom "bass-ackward" (also spelled "bass-ackwards") is a colloquial and humorous variation of the term "ass-backward." It is essentially a slang expression used to describe something that is done or arranged in a completely backward, reversed, or illogical manner. It implies a sense of confusion, disorder, or lack of proper sequence. It is often used to mock or criticize situations, decisions, or actions that appear nonsensical or counterproductive.
  • bass-ackwards The idiom "bass-ackwards" refers to something being done or arranged in a way that is completely backward, unconventional, or opposite to the normal or logical order. It implies a sense of confusion, disorganization, or backwardness.
  • ground bass The idiom "ground bass" refers to a musical technique or form in which a repeating bass line, typically in the lower registers, serves as a foundation or structural framework for the entire composition. The bass line, often consisting of a short melodic or rhythmic pattern, is repeated throughout the piece while the melody or other musical elements may vary or develop above it.
  • couldn't hit a bull in the ass with a bass fiddle The idiom "couldn't hit a bull in the ass with a bass fiddle" is a colorful and humorous way to describe someone's lack of accuracy or poor aim. It implies that the person is very bad at hitting or aiming at a target, using the image of a bull's rear end as the target and a large musical instrument like a bass fiddle as the object being used to hit it. Overall, it suggests a complete lack of skill or competence in hitting a target accurately.

Similar spelling words for BASS

Plural form of BASS is BASS OR BASSES

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