minor key


noun Music.

a key or mode based on a minor scale.
a less jubilant or more restrained mood, atmosphere, or quality: The conversation shifted to a minor key with news of the defeat.

Origin of minor key

First recorded in 1810–20

Example sentences from the Web for minor key

  • And then, turning into the fourth page, she came on a passage which checked all minor-key reflections instantly.

    Angela's Business |Henry Sydnor Harrison

British Dictionary definitions for minor key

minor key

noun

music a key based on notes taken from a corresponding minor scale