Adagio: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'adagio' comes from Italian, specifically from the phrase 'ad agio,' which translates to 'at ease.' The usage of the word in musical contexts dates back to the Baroque period, where it was employed to denote a slow tempo in compositions. It became more standardized in musical terminology during the Classical and Romantic periods, where composers began to use it explicitly in their scores to indicate a relaxed style of playing. Adagio, alongside terms like allegro and lento, contributes significantly to the expressive capability of musicians, allowing them to convey various moods through tempo and phrasing. The word has maintained its relevance across centuries, appearing frequently in orchestral compositions and chamber music. Today, 'adagio' is recognized by musicians and audiences alike as a key term in the lexicon of music performance.

This word's position of #34,043 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 34043 adagio
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