1. A brief record, especially one written down to aid the memory: took notes during the lecture.

2. A brief informal letter. See synonyms at letter.

3. A formal written diplomatic or official communication.

4. A comment or an explanation, as on a passage in a text.

5. a. A piece of paper currency. b. A certificate issued by a government or a bank and sometimes negotiable as money. c. A promissory note.

6. Music. a. A tone of definite pitch. b. A symbol for such a tone, indicating pitch by its position on the staff and duration by its shape. c. A key of an instrument, such as a piano.

7. The characteristic vocal sound made by a songbird or other animal: the clear note of a cardinal.

8. The sign of a particular quality or emotion: ended his plea on a note of despair; a note of gaiety in her manner. See synonyms at sign.

9. Importance; consequence: Nothing of note happened.

10. Notice; observation: quietly took note of the scene.

11. Obsolete. A song, melody, or tune.

1. To observe carefully; notice. See synonyms at see1.

2. To make a note of; write down: noted the time of each arrival.

3. To show; indicate: a reporter who is careful to note sources of information.

4. To make mention of; remark: noted the lateness of their arrival.