Monophonic refers to a musical texture that consists of a single melodic line without any harmonic support or accompaniment. This means that only one note is played or sung at a time, creating a straightforward and clear sound. Monophonic music can be found in various cultures and is often used in traditional songs, chants, and early forms of music. In contrast to polyphonic music, which features multiple independent melodies, monophonic music focuses solely on the melody itself. Examples of monophonic music include Gregorian chant and many folk songs, where the emphasis is on the singular melodic line, allowing for a direct and unembellished musical experience.