Tempo

/ˈtɛmpoʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The speed at which a passage of music is played or sung.

The conductor increased the tempo for the final movement of the symphony.

The rate or speed of an activity or process.

The tempo of the training sessions picked up as the competition approached.

A specific speed or pace in music, typically indicated by a metronome marking.

She played the piece at a slow tempo to ensure each note was perfect.

Italian, literally meaning 'time', from Latin 'tempus'.

at a fast tempo

Playing or moving quickly.

slow tempo

A leisurely pace or rhythm.

set the tempo

To establish the pace or guideline for others.

metronome

A device that produces a regular, metrical tick, used to measure time.

allegro

A musical term indicating a brisk tempo.

largo

A musical term indicating a slow tempo.

To be in the zone or doing well with speed.

I'm really in the tempo today with my workouts.

To keep things moving quickly.

Let's keep the tempo up in this meeting.