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Bass Meaning in English

word

/ˈbæs/, /ˈbeɪs/
bas, bays
/ˈbæs/, /ˈbeɪs/
bas, bays

Definition

Bass can mean a type of fish, a very low sound or musical range, or a bass guitar. The pronunciation changes: the fish is said like “base,” while the musical word is said like “bass” in “class.”

Usage & Nuances

This is a classic pronunciation trap because one spelling has two pronunciations and unrelated meanings. Common patterns: 'sea bass' or 'largemouth bass' for the fish; 'bass voice,' 'bass line,' and 'bass guitar' for music. In audio, 'turn up the bass' means increase low frequencies.

Example Sentences

We ate grilled bass for dinner.

basic

Her brother plays bass in a band.

basic

This speaker has strong bass.

basic

Can you turn down the bass? The walls are shaking.

natural

He sings bass, so the low notes are easy for him.

natural

I thought bass was easy until I tried to play a real bass line.

natural