Definition of RESONATING (original) (raw)
1
: to produce or exhibit resonance
A person’s voice … is made by sound resonating in the mouth and nose …—
Ken Carlson
2
: to respond as if by resonance
also : to have a repetitive pattern that resembles resonance
3
: to affect or appeal to someone in a personal or emotional way
a message that resonates with voters
Did you know?
Resonate and reverberate each have at least one meaning that is concerned with sound, and they carry a degree of overlap in their definitions. However, there are some subtle differences between them that are worth observing. Resonate typically suggests that a single lasting sound is produced; reverberate, on the other hand, indicates that an initial sound is followed by a series of echoes. In terms of the contexts in which they are used, resonate often involves a person (“that passage of the book resonated with many young readers”); reverberate, on the other hand, is more likely to be used of a thing, such as the aftermath of some major event (“the shock caused by the assassination reverberated across Europe”).
Synonyms
Examples of resonate in a Sentence
The siren resonated throughout the city. The deep sounds of the bassoon resonated through the concert hall.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The format’s combination of deduction and performance has resonated with audiences worldwide, with each country tailoring the concept to reflect local sensibilities. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 5 Jan. 2025 On the other hand, many resonated with her point of view. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 5 Jan. 2025 Her words resonated deeply, encapsulating the essence of her four-decade-long career that has seamlessly blended African traditions with global influences. —Ime Ekpo, Forbes, 4 Jan. 2025 Wood’s romantic oldies resonated with a new generation of lovebirds, becoming a soundtrack of Southern California life — literally, as Wood found a third career as a performer at weddings, quinceañeras and anniversary parties. —Priscella Vega, Los Angeles Times, 4 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for resonate 
Word History
First Known Use
1648, in the meaning defined at transitive sense
Time Traveler
The first known use of resonate was in 1648
Dictionary Entries Near resonate
Cite this Entry
“Resonate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/resonate. Accessed 17 Jan. 2025.
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Last Updated: 8 Jan 2025 - Updated example sentences
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