The "C dim" chord, also known as C diminished, is a type of chord in music that consists of the notes C, E♭, and G♭. It is characterized by its tense and dissonant sound, which is created by the minor third interval between C and E♭, and the diminished fifth interval between C and G♭. This chord is often used to create a sense of tension or to lead into other chords. In music theory, diminished chords like C dim are typically represented with the symbol "dim" or a small circle (°) next to the letter name. They are commonly found in various genres, including classical, jazz, and pop music. Diminished chords can serve as transitional chords, helping to connect different sections of a piece or to add emotional depth to a musical passage.