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tempo

|tem/po|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈtɛmpoʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈtɛmpəʊ/

speed of music or activity

Etymology
Etymology Information

'tempo' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'tempo,' where 'tempo' meant 'time.'

Historical Evolution

'tempo' was borrowed directly from Italian into English in the 17th century.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'time' in a general sense, but over time it evolved to specifically refer to the speed of music or activity.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the speed or pace of a given piece of music.

The conductor set a fast tempo for the orchestra.

Synonyms

pacespeedrhythm

Noun 2

the rate or speed of motion or activity; pace.

The tempo of the game increased in the second half.

Synonyms

paceratevelocity

Examples

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Idioms

keep up the tempo

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35