note

n. & v.
—n.
1 a brief record of facts, topics, thoughts, etc., as an aid to memory, for use in writing, public speaking, etc. (often in pl.: make notes; spoke without notes).
2 an observation, usu. unwritten, of experiences etc. (compare notes).
3 a short or informal letter.
4 a formal diplomatic or parliamentary communication.
5 a short annotation or additional explanation in a book etc.; a footnote.
6 a Brit. = BANKNOTE (a five-pound note). b a written promise or notice of payment of various kinds.
7 a notice, attention (worthy of note). b distinction, eminence (a person of note).
8 a a written sign representing the pitch and duration of a musical sound. b a single tone of definite pitch made by a musical instrument, the human voice, etc. c a key of a piano etc.
9 a a bird's song or call. b a single tone in this.
10 a quality or tone of speaking, expressing mood or attitude etc. (sound a note of warning; ended on a note of optimism).
11 a characteristic; a distinguishing feature.
—v.tr.
1 observe, notice; give or draw attention to.
2 (often foll. by down) record as a thing to be remembered or observed.
3 (in passive; often foll. by for) be famous or well known (for a quality, activity, etc.) (were noted for their generosity).
Phrases and idioms:
hit (or strike) the right note speak or act in exactly the right manner. of note important, distinguished (a person of note). take note (often foll. by of) observe; pay attention (to).
Derivatives:
noted adj. (in sense 3 of v.). noteless adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF note (n.), noter (v.) f. L nota mark