accelerando
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˌæk.səˈlɛr.ən.doʊ//
KK: /ˌæk.səˈlɛr.ən.doʊ/
adjective
Definition
Moving or happening at an increasing speed.
Example
The music began to play with an accelerando, building excitement as it progressed.
Conversation
Have you heard that new song that starts off slow but gets really fast?
Yeah, I love how it builds up with an accelerando effect towards the end!
It makes you want to dance even more, right?
Absolutely! The accelerando gives it so much energy.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
speeding
quickening
hastening
Antonyms
slowing
decelerating
lagging
adverb
Definition
This term means to gradually increase speed or tempo, often used in music to indicate that the pace should become faster over time.
Example
The conductor signaled for the orchestra to play the piece with an accelerando towards the end.
Conversation
Have you noticed how the tempo in that song changes?accelerando really adds to the excitement.
Totally! It makes you feel like you're being swept away by the music.
I think it's cool how composers use accelerando to build tension.
noun
Definition
A gradual increase in speed or tempo, often used in music to indicate that the performer should play faster.
Example
The conductor signaled for an accelerando as the orchestra built up to the climax of the piece.
Conversation
Did you notice the accelerando in that last song we heard?
Yeah, it really built up the excitement!
I love how an accelerando can change the mood of a piece.
Root Explanation
Accelerando is formed from "accelerare" (meaning to hasten or speed up) and the suffix "-ando" (indicating a continuous action). The word describes a gradual increase in tempo, particularly in music, suggesting a continuous speeding up of the pace.
Memory Tip
Think of 'hastening' ('accelerare') as you picture music gradually speeding up — that's what 'accelerando' means.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.