tonic

/ˈtɑnɪk/
noun
  1. A carbonated drink flavored with quinine, often mixed with gin or vodka.
    • I like to drink tonic water with a slice of lime.
    • She ordered a gin and tonic at the bar.
    • The recipe calls for a splash of tonic to add bitterness.
  2. Something that makes you feel healthier, stronger, or more energetic.
    • Her cheerful laugh was a tonic for everyone in the room.
    • The vacation was a perfect tonic after months of hard work.
    • A walk in the fresh air is a great tonic for the mind.
  3. The first note of a musical scale, which gives the key its name.
    • In the key of C major, the tonic is the note C.
    • The melody returns to the tonic at the end of the song.
    • Learning to identify the tonic helps you understand the key of a piece.
Antonyms
adjective
  1. Having a refreshing or invigorating effect; restoring energy or health.
    • The tonic properties of the water were known for centuries.
    • He took a tonic bath with essential oils to relax.
    • The tonic herbs in the tea helped her feel better.
  2. Relating to the first note of a musical scale.
    • The tonic chord provides a sense of rest in the music.
    • She practiced the tonic triad on the piano.
    • The piece ends on a strong tonic note.
What does "tonic" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean