dulcet

Dulcet is an English adjective describing sounds that are sweet and soothing to the ear. It characterizes music, voices, or other tones that are pleasantly melodious. While most often applied to auditory impressions, the term can convey a general sense of gentleness and charm in a literary or rhetorical sense.

Etymology: The word derives from Latin dulcis meaning 'sweet', and reached English via Old French and Middle English. The form dulcet is attested from the late Middle Ages (14th century), reflecting its meaning of sweetness in sound.

Usage notes: Dulcet tones or a dulcet voice are common collocations in both literary and descriptive prose. The expression has a somewhat formal or literary feel and can occasionally read as quaint or old-fashioned in modern everyday language. It is generally positive, and not used for harsh or unpleasant sounds; for such cases, terms like cacophonous or discordant would be used.

Related terms: melodious, euphonic, harmonious, sonorous. See also: music criticism, poetry.

Examples: "The dulcet strains of the violin filled the concert hall." "Her dulcet singing carried the audience away."