Chord vs. cord

What does chord mean?

Chord is a noun which means a group of musical notes which create harmony. As a verb, chord means to play or arrange notes in a chord.

For example:

• Let’s start this piece with a C major chord.

What does cord mean?

Cord is a noun meaning a piece of string or rope made from twisted strands, ribbed fabric or a measure of cut wood. As a verb, cord means to attach a cord to something.

For example:

• Cut the cord into short pieces (rope).

• She’ll be wearing a cord jacket to the party (fabric).

• She’s going to cord the blinds so she can finally hang them up (verb).

What’s the difference between chord and cord?

Chord is a group of musical notes while cord is a piece of string made from twisted strands, ribbed fabric, or a measure of cut wood.

• The guitarist played the chords while wearing a cord jacket.