Pronunciation: [ɪnhɑːmˈɒnɪkə͡l] (IPA) 
The word "inharmonical" is typically spelled with two "n's" in the middle, despite being pronounced with only one. IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /ɪnˈhɑːmɒnɪkəl/ which indicates that the stress falls on the second syllable, and the "n" sound is pronounced only once. The word means lacking harmony or not in tune, and although it is rarely used in modern language, it can be found in musical discussions or critiques.
Inharmonical is an adjective that refers to something that is lacking harmony, agreement, or conformity. It describes a state of disharmony, discordance, or incongruity between different elements or parts of a whole.
When used to describe music or sounds, inharmonical refers to tones, pitches, or chords that do not blend well together, resulting in a dissonant or unpleasant sound. It implies a lack of harmony and melodic coherence, often conveying a sense of unease or tension. Inharmonical sounds can be produced intentionally for artistic purposes, such as in avant-garde music genres, to create a jarring or unsettling effect.
In a broader sense, inharmonical can be used to describe any situation, relationship, or system that lacks harmony, coherence, or alignment. It suggests a lack of agreement, symmetry, or coordination among different elements, leading to disorder, confusion, or conflict. In social contexts, it can refer to disharmony or discord among individuals, groups, or communities, highlighting a lack of understanding, collaboration, or cooperation.
Overall, inharmonical denotes a condition or quality characterized by disharmony, dissonance, or lack of accord. It implies a lack of consonance, agreement, or unity between different elements, be it in music, sound, or various other contexts.
Discordant; not musical.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "inharmonical" is derived from the combination of the prefix "in-" meaning "not" or "opposite", and the root word "harmonical". "Harmonical" itself is derived from the noun "harmony", which comes from the Latin word "harmonia" and the Greek word "harmoniā". The original Greek term was used to describe the combination of elements in music, referring to a pleasing arrangement of sounds or voices. Over time, the term "harmonia" evolved to denote a sense of agreement or accord in a broader sense, beyond music. The addition of the "in-" prefix to "harmonical" creates the word "inharmonical", meaning "not in harmony" or "lacking harmony".
