Chord, cord

Note to people using a screen reader: This article contains homonyms.

On this page

• General information on homonyms
• Chord
• Cord
• Additional information

General information on homonyms

Homonyms are words that have different meanings but are pronounced or spelled the same way. That’s why words like chord and cord are easily confused.

For more information, read our writing tip “Homonyms, homophones, homographs.”

Chord

The noun chord has several meanings, including the following:

1. a combination of three or more musical tones played at the same time
   • Carlo reached for his guitar and played a few chords.
2. a feeling or attitude
   • The song’s poignant lyrics struck a chord with many listeners.
3. a straight line joining two points on a curve
   • In geometry class, our teacher showed us how a chord can cut a circle into two parts.

Cord

The noun cord also has several meanings, including the following:

1. a thick, strong string
   • Meredith tied the branches together with a cord.
2. a cable
   • The kettle cord isn’t long enough to reach the wall socket.
3. a measure of cut wood
   • How many cords of wood do you use in your fireplace in a year?
4. ribbed fabric, especially corduroy
   • The skirt was made from fine needle cord.

Note that in the plural, cords refers to pants made of corduroy material.

• Meiling wore a pair of brown cords.

Additional information

• Homonyms, homophones, homographs