Langimage
English

crescendo

|cre-schen-do|

B2

🇺🇸

/krəˈʃɛndoʊ/

🇬🇧

/krəˈʃɛndəʊ/

gradual increase

Etymology
Etymology Information

'crescendo' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'crescere,' where 'cresc-' meant 'to grow.'

Historical Evolution

'crescere' transformed into the Italian word 'crescendo,' and eventually became the modern English word 'crescendo.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to grow or increase,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a gradual increase in loudness or intensity.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a gradual increase in loudness or intensity, especially in music.

The orchestra reached a powerful crescendo.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to increase in loudness or intensity.

The music crescendoed to a thrilling finale.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/04/19 08:18