noun
plaintive tone; mournful melody; sad strain
Refers to a sorrowful or plaintive quality in music, voice, or literary tone. Often used in descriptions of songs, poems, or performances.
彼女の歌声には哀調が漂っていた。
Her singing voice carried a mournful tone.
この曲の哀調が心にしみる。
The plaintive melody of this piece touches the heart.