Definition of "timbre" in English

noun

1. The quality of a sound independent of its pitch and volume.

2. The pitch of a sound as heard by the ear, described relative to its absolute pitch.

   • When someone speaks after inhaling helium, his voice has a higher timbre. With sulfur hexafluoride, the result is a lower timbre.

3. (heraldry, uncommon) The crest on a (helmet atop a) coat of arms.

   • Quarterly the First quarter Siluer …, The second Siluer a Cheueron gules betweene three Castles Sables And to his timbre vpon his healme, an Elephants head in his proper Colours […]