ritardando

/ˌriːtɑrˈdɑndoʊ/
adverb
  1. A musical instruction meaning to gradually slow down the tempo.
    • The composer wrote 'ritardando' above the final measures.
    • The orchestra played the passage ritardando, creating a dramatic effect.
    • She practiced the section ritardando to master the gradual slowdown.
Antonyms
noun
  1. A passage or section of music played with a gradual slowing of tempo.
    • Listen for the ritardando just before the piece ends.
    • The conductor emphasized the ritardando to build suspense.
    • The ritardando in the second movement was beautifully executed.
Synonyms