decrescendo
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈkrɛʃ.ɛn.doʊ/
KK: /dɪˈkrɛʃˌɛndoʊ/
adjective
Definition
A term used in music to describe a gradual decrease in volume or intensity.
Example
The music ended with a soft decrescendo, fading gently into silence.
Conversation
Did you notice how the music ended with a decrescendo?
Yeah, it was really beautiful and calming.
I love when songs do that; it gives a nice feeling of closure.
Absolutely! It makes the experience even more memorable.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
diminishing
decreasing
fading
Antonyms
crescendo
increasing
amplifying
adverb
Definition
In music, it means to gradually decrease in volume or intensity.
Example
The orchestra played the final notes in a decrescendo, fading softly into silence.
Conversation
Did you notice how the music ended with a decrescendo?
Yeah, it was such a beautiful way to finish the song.
I love how it created that peaceful atmosphere at the end.
noun
Definition
A gradual decrease in loudness or intensity, often used in music to indicate that the sound should become softer.
Example
The orchestra played a beautiful decrescendo at the end of the piece.
Conversation
Did you notice the decrescendo in that last piece we heard?
Yeah, it really created a beautiful effect as it faded out.
I love how a decrescendo can change the mood of a song.
Root Explanation
Decrescendo is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "crescere" (meaning to grow or increase). The term describes a gradual decrease in volume or intensity, particularly in music, indicating a movement away from loudness.
Memory Tip
Think of 'going down' ('de-') in volume as you 'decrease' the sound, which is what decrescendo means.
Visually Confused Words
crescendo