What does the term 'tone' refer to in regards to communication?

In the context of communication, 'tone' specifically refers to the quality of the sound of words. This encompasses aspects such as pitch, intonation, and volume that affect how a message is perceived by the listener. Tone can convey emotions and attitudes, influencing the overall meaning and impact of the spoken words. For instance, a cheerful tone can enhance positive messages, while a flat or harsh tone may suggest disinterest or negativity. Understanding tone is crucial in effective communication, as it can drastically alter the interpretation of what is being said, regardless of the actual words used.

Other aspects of communication mentioned, such as volume variability, quality of facial expressions, and gestural communication, are important in their own right but do not directly define 'tone' in the way that the sound quality of spoken words does.