# bass

/ˈbæs/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bass
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. low musical sounds

noun · CEFR B1

the lowest range of sounds in music, or the part of a song that has deep, heavy tones.

For teachers: the lowest part of the musical spectrum or a composition, typically providing the harmonic foundation.

- The speakers were so powerful that I could feel the bass in my chest.
- The producer decided to boost the bass in the final mix to give the track a more club-oriented feel.

### 2. a musical instrument

noun · CEFR B1

an instrument that plays very low notes, like a bass guitar or a double bass.

For teachers: any of several instruments that play in the lowest register, specifically the double bass or bass guitar.

- He has been playing the bass in a jazz band for three years.
- The ensemble consisted of a pianist, a drummer, and a virtuoso on the upright bass.

### 3. a male singer

noun · CEFR B2

a man with a very deep singing voice.

For teachers: the lowest adult male singing voice, typically ranging from the second E below middle C to the E above middle C.

- The choir needs one more bass to balance out the higher voices.
- The soloist was a renowned bass whose resonant low notes filled the entire cathedral without the need for amplification.

### 4. a type of fish

noun · CEFR B2

a common type of fish found in rivers or the sea that people often catch for sport or food.

For teachers: any of various edible spiny-finned fish, including both freshwater and marine species.

- We spent the whole afternoon at the lake trying to catch some bass.
- The chef recommended the grilled sea bass, served with a light lemon and herb butter sauce.

### 5. low-pitched

adjective · CEFR B2

describing a sound or voice that is very low and deep.

For teachers: relating to or producing the lowest range of musical notes.

- He spoke in a deep, bass voice that was easy to hear in the quiet room.
- The bass clef is used to notate music for instruments with a lower range, such as the cello or bassoon.

## Examples

- The bass in this song is very loud.
- The choir director asked the bass section to sing more softly during the opening verse.
- While the melody captures the listener's immediate attention, the driving bass line provides the essential rhythmic and harmonic foundation that gives the track its energy.

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