Definition

A short musical phrase or pattern that is repeated many times, often in the same pitch, throughout a piece of music.

Example

The pianist played an ostinato that created a captivating rhythm in the piece.

Conversation

Have you ever listened to a piece that features an ostinato?

Yeah, I love how it creates a hypnotic effect in the music.

Exactly! It’s fascinating how a simple pattern can be so powerful.

Totally! It makes the whole piece feel more cohesive.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Ostinato** → It is derived from the Italian word *ostinato*, meaning stubborn or obstinate, which comes from the Latin *obstinatus* (meaning stubborn or persistent). The word refers to a musical phrase that is persistently repeated throughout a composition.

Memory Tip

Imagine a musical phrase that is 'stubbornly' repeated over and over — that's what 'ostinato' means.

Visually Confused Words