adjective / adverb
mezzo
Moderate in degree, especially in musical directions.
The score marks this passage mezzo forte, or moderately loud.
Etymology
The Italian word means half or middle. Musical directions use it to moderate another instruction, as in mezzo forte, rather than demanding the full degree.
More examples
- Start mezzo piano, then gradually increase the volume.
- The choir stays mezzo forte throughout the final verse.
- In musical directions, mezzo means moderately rather than very.
Forms
mezzo
Similar words
- moderate
- Describes a middle degree generally, not specifically in music.
- moderately
- Expresses degree in everyday language rather than Italian musical directions.