1. a harsh, unpleasant combination of sounds
Usage: music
2. lack of agreement or harmony between people or things
3. inconsistency between one’s beliefs and actions
Usage: psychology

Examples

• The dissonance in the modern composition made some audience members uncomfortable.
• There was clear dissonance between the team members about the project’s direction.
• The harsh dissonance of car horns filled the busy street.
• She felt cognitive dissonance when her actions contradicted her values.
• The dissonance between his public statements and private behavior was obvious.
• The orchestra worked to eliminate any dissonance from their performance.
• Political dissonance within the party led to internal conflicts.