noun
brio
BREE-oh/ˈbriːəʊ/
Lively energy and confident style.
The violinist attacks the final movement with dazzling brio.
Etymology
Italian brio expresses figurative fire or vitality. English probably adopted it through the musical direction con brio, calling for spirited performance—the energy and flair conveyed by the English noun.
More examples
- She told the familiar story with unexpected brio.
- The chef brings brio to a simple lunch menu.
- His performance lacked precision but overflowed with brio.
Forms
brio
Similar words
- verve
- Similarly lively energy, without necessarily suggesting confident flair.