D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord

Chord Tones: D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord

Symbol: dim7, °7 — Formula: 1-♭3-♭5-𝄫7

Chord Notation

Roman numeral (e.g. I, IV, V) and Nashville Number notation are key-dependent. See Keys pages for chord function within specific keys.

Inversions

Harmonic Function

The D♭ diminished seventh chord commonly functions as the supertonic (♭II, Neapolitan) in C major or tonic in D♭ major. Its harmonic role varies by key — in major keys it provides extended harmonic tension.

The diminished seventh chord consists of four equally-spaced minor thirds, creating a symmetrical, highly dissonant chord. It is used as a dramatic pivot chord and in chromatic passing harmony. The D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord specifically contains 4 notes: D♭, E, G, B♭ (formula: 1-♭3-♭5-𝄫7). On piano, Db-rooted chords place the root on a black key surrounded by other black keys, and the hand naturally cups over the raised surface for smooth voice leading. Romantic piano repertoire, contemporary R&B, and cinematic underscore frequently feature Db chords for their lush, introspective warmth.

Common Progressions

The D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord frequently appears in these progression patterns (shown in Roman numeral notation relative to key):

• viidim7-I
• sharpivdim7-V

Songs Featuring the Diminished Seventh Chord

Well-known songs where the D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord — or this chord type — plays a prominent role:

• While My Guitar Gently Weeps – Beatles
• Georgia on My Mind – Ray Charles
• Sophisticated Lady – Duke Ellington

Tuning Frequencies Across Temperaments

Frequencies shown at A=440 Hz. View full temperament data for any note.

Scales Containing the D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord

These scales include the D♭ Diminished Seventh Chord as a diatonic or characteristic chord: