note / nōt/ • n. 1. a brief record of facts, topics, or thoughts, written down as an aid to memory: I'll make a note in my diary | Robyn arranged her notes on the lectern. ∎  a short comment on or explanation of a word or passage in a book or article; an annotation: see note iv above.2. a short informal letter or written message: I left her a note explaining where I was going. ∎  an official letter sent from the representative of one government to another. ∎  a short official document that certifies a particular thing: you need a sick note from your doctor.3. Brit. a banknote: a ten-pound note.4. a single tone of definite pitch made by a musical instrument or the human voice: the last notes of the symphony died away. ∎  a written sign representing the pitch and duration of such a sound. ∎  a key of a piano or similar instrument: black notes | white notes. ∎  a bird's song or call, or a single tone in this: the tawny owl has a harsh flight note.5. [in sing.] a particular quality or tone that reflects or expresses a mood or attitude: there was a note of scorn in her voice | the decade could have ended on an optimistic note. ∎  any of the basic components of fragrance or flavor: the fresh note of bergamot.• v. [tr.] 1. notice or pay particular attention to (something): noting his mother's unusual gaiety| please note that you will not receive a reminder that final payment is due. ∎  remark upon (something), typically in order to draw someone's attention to it: we noted earlier the difficulties inherent in this strategy.2. record (something) in writing: he noted down her address on a piece of paper.PHRASES: hit (or strike) the right (or wrong) note say or do something in exactly the right (or wrong) way.of note1. worth paying attention to: many of his comments are worthy of note.2. important; distinguished: Roman historians of note include Livy, Tacitus, and Sallust.strike a false note appear insincere or inappropriate: she greeted him gushingly, and that struck a false note.strike (or sound) a note of express (a particular feeling or view) about something: he sounded a note of caution about the trend toward health foods.take note pay attention: employers should take note of the needs of disabled people.