Cord vs. Chord
The words are homophones in standard pronunciation but have different meanings. Choose by meaning rather than sound.
Use “cord” for rope, string, covered wire, or similar cord-like things. Use “chord” for a group of musical notes sounded together or, in geometry, a line segment joining two points on a circle.
Key details
Choose the right form
| Meaning / context | Use | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| rope, string, cable, or covered wire | cord | Use the c-o-r-d spelling. |
| musical notes sounded together | chord | Use the c-h-o-r-d spelling. |
| geometry line segment joining two points on a circle | chord | Use the mathematical noun. |
Quick tests
Decision test
Is the word about rope, string, wire, or a cord-like object?
If yes: Use “cord.”
If no: If the meaning is musical or the geometry term, use “chord.”
Caveat: Some specialized fields use these words in additional ways; the core spelling choice still follows meaning, not pronunciation.
Examples
The lamp has a long power cord.
“Cord” refers to a covered electrical cable.
The pianist played a final chord.
“Chord” is the musical noun.
Draw a chord across the circle.
“Chord” is also the geometry term.
Further guidance
Core difference
Use the c-o-r-d spelling.
Fast Test
Use “cord.” If the meaning is musical or the geometry term, use “chord.”
Usage Boundary
Some specialized fields use these words in additional ways; the core spelling choice still follows meaning, not pronunciation.
Sources and evidence
Sources are shown with the role they play in this guide. Historical or style-sensitive claims are kept within the evidence boundary described above.
- cord (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Cord is a noun for rope/string, covered electrical wire, and rope-like body structures, among other senses.
- chord (opens in a new tab)Cambridge University Press · Chord is a noun for musical notes sounded together and, in mathematics, a straight line joining points on a circle.