noun / verb
crescendo
kruh-SHEN-doh/krəˈʃendəʊ/
A gradual increase in loudness, intensity, or force.
The orchestra builds a slow crescendo as the melody repeats.
Etymology
The root’s idea of growing became a musical term for gradually increasing loudness or force. That musical increase then supplied the figurative sense of mounting intensity.
In context
the horrific sounds increased in intensity until they reached a crescendo and the Reverend suddenly expired
More examples
- The applause crescendos as more people rise to their feet.
- Public frustration grew in a steady crescendo over several weeks.
- The drums crescendoed from a soft rumble to a thunderous roar.
Forms
crescendo · crescendos · crescendi · crescendoed · crescendoing
Similar words
- buildup
- Emphasizes gradual accumulation or preparation, not necessarily increasing loudness.
- swell
- Suggests a wave-like rise in sound, feeling, or force.
- intensification
- Means becoming stronger, without necessarily implying a gradual increase.