tempo

UK: ˈtɛmpəʊ | US: ˈtɛmpoʊ

Definition

  1. n. the speed at which a piece of music is played

  2. n. the rate or rhythm of activity or motion

Structure
temp <time>
Etymology

Derived directly from Italian "tempo" (meaning "time"), which traces back to Latin "tempus" (time). The musical sense emerged in the 18th century, reflecting the measurement of time in beats per minute. The word retains its Italian spelling and structure, with the root "temp-" consistently linked to temporal concepts across Romance languages.

Examples

  1. The conductor adjusted the tempo to a lively allegro.

  2. Modern life moves at a frantic tempo.

  3. The dancer matched her steps to the music’s shifting tempo.

  4. A slower tempo can create a more dramatic effect.

  5. The pianist struggled to maintain the correct tempo during the performance.