■ noun
1》 a brief written record of facts, topics, or thoughts, used as an aid to memory.
↘an annotation.
2》 a short informal written message.
↘a short official document of certification.
↘an official letter sent from the representative of one government to another.
3》 Brit. a bank~.
↘a written promise or notice of payment of various kinds.
4》 a single tone of definite pitch made by a musical instrument or the human voice.
↘a written sign representing the pitch and duration of such a sound.
↘a key of a piano or similar instrument.
5》 a bird's song or call, or a single tone in this.
6》 a particular quality or tone expressing a mood or attitude: there was a ~ of scorn in her voice.
7》 any of the basic components of a fragrance or flavour.
■ verb
1》 pay attention to.
2》 record in writing.
Phrases
hit (or strike ) the right (or wrong) ~ say or do something in the right (or wrong) way.
of ~ important.
strike (or sound ) a ~ of express (a particular feeling or view).
take ~ pay attention.
Origin
ME: from OFr. ~ (n.), ~r (v.), from L. nota 'a mark', notare 'to mark'.