Major Second
An interval spanning two semitones, equivalent to a whole tone or whole step.
Category
intervals
Pronunciation
/ˈmeɪdʒə ˈsɛkənd/
Origin
Latin (secundus, second)
Length
199 words · 1 min read
About Major Second
The major second is the distance of two semitones — C to D, F to G, or A to B, for instance. It is the standard step size in major and minor scales and feels natural and relaxed as a melodic movement.
More intervals terms
Perfect Fifth
View all intervalsterms →An interval of seven semitones
Major SixthAn interval spanning nine semitones, often described as warm, open, and gently uplifting.
TritoneAn interval of six semitones — exactly half an octave
Minor SixthAn interval spanning eight semitones, with a bittersweet quality often used in expressive melodic writing.
Compound IntervalAn interval wider than an octave, such as a ninth, tenth, or eleventh.
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v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →