staccato

/stækˈætoʊ, stəˈkɑːtoʊ/

Definitions

1. adjective

played or executed with short detached notes, or having a sudden, jerky quality

“The pianist’s staccato performance of the classical piece left the audience in awe.”

2. noun

a musical note or passage played or sung with short detached notes

“The staccato rhythm added a sense of urgency to the song.”

3. verb

to play or sing with short detached notes, typically in a lively or energetic manner

“The conductor asked the orchestra to staccato the final movement of the symphony.”

Synonyms

  • detached
  • short
  • syncopated

Antonyms

  • legato
  • smooth