Definition

A term used in music to indicate that a piece should be played very softly.

Example

The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the final notes pianissimo for a gentle effect.

Conversation

Did you hear how she played that piece last night?

Yeah, it was so beautiful, especially when she went pianissimo.

I know, it really added to the emotion of the music.

Exactly! It was like we could feel every note.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

In a very soft or quiet manner, often used in music to indicate that a passage should be played softly.

Example

The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the piece pianissimo for a more delicate effect.

Conversation

Did you hear that piece of music played pianissimo?

Yes, it was so beautiful and calming.

I love how the pianissimo parts create such a gentle atmosphere.

Definition

A term used in music to indicate that a piece or passage should be played very softly or quietly.

Example

The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the final section pianissimo to create a gentle atmosphere.

Conversation

Did you hear that pianissimo section in the piece we played last night?

Yes! It was so beautiful and peaceful.

I really love when the music goes to a pianissimo part like that.

Root Explanation

**Pianissimo** → It is formed from "piano" (from Italian, meaning soft) and "-issimo" (a suffix in Italian used to indicate a superlative degree, meaning very). The word "pianissimo" means very soft, particularly in musical dynamics.

Memory Tip

Think of 'piano' meaning soft, and the '-issimo' indicating very — so pianissimo means very soft in music.

Visually Confused Words