How is "polyphony" characterized in music?

Polyphony in music is characterized by the use of two or more simultaneous melodic lines that are independently crafted yet sound harmonious together. This texture allows for multiple voices or instruments to interact, creating a rich and complex musical experience. Each melodic line retains its distinct identity, which contributes to the overall texture of the piece.

This contrasts with a single melodic line, which would characterize monophony. Harmonic consonance pertains to the pleasing quality of chords and their combinations but does not specifically define polyphony. Rhythmic uniformity refers to a consistent rhythm across parts, which is not inherent to polyphonic music, where different lines may have varied rhythmic patterns. Thus, the essence of polyphony lies in its simultaneous, intricate melodic lines.