Music theory definition
Dominant seventh
A major triad plus a minor 7th, like G7. It drives strongly to I.
Hear an example
Play the example and listen for the idea described above.
A tritone inside
in C = G B D F. B and F form a that resolves: B → C, F → E.
Learn it in context
This term is introduced in Unit 11: Seventh chords. Work through the explanations and exercises to connect the definition with music.
- The dominant seventh
The chord that drives music home.
Related music terms
- Seventh chord
- A triad with a fourth note a 7th above the root.
- Half-diminished seventh
- A diminished triad plus a minor 7th (ø7), like Bø7.
- Diminished seventh
- A diminished triad plus a diminished 7th (°7) - four notes, all a minor 3rd apart.