In unison
Meaning
When two or more people or things act or speak at exactly the same time, producing a single, synchronized effect.
Origin
The word "unison" has its roots in Latin, combining "unus" (one) and "sonus" (sound), literally meaning "one sound." It entered the English language in the late 16th century, primarily within the realm of music. Imagine a choir, perhaps in a grand cathedral, where every voice is meant to blend seamlessly, producing a single, rich chord rather than a cacophony. The idea was to eliminate dissonance, to achieve a perfect, singular sound. From this musical beginning, the phrase "in unison" gracefully expanded its reach, moving beyond the concert hall to describe any instance where multiple elements—be they voices, actions, or movements—converge into a perfectly synchronized whole, speaking to a collective effort where every part contributes to a singular, powerful outcome.
Examples
- The choir sang the final chorus in unison, their voices blending into a powerful, harmonious sound.
- The dancers moved across the stage in unison, their intricate steps perfectly synchronized.