Pronunciation: /spiˈkɑːtoʊ/

Definitions of spiccato

noun a technique in music where the bow bounces lightly on the strings of a string instrument

Example Sentences

A1 I heard the spiccato of the violin during the concert.

A2 The music teacher taught us how to play spiccato on the cello.

B1 The spiccato technique is commonly used in string instrument performances.

B2 The cellist's spiccato bowing added a lively rhythm to the piece.

C1 Her spiccato technique was so precise and controlled, it was mesmerizing to watch.

C2 The violinist's spiccato was flawless, showcasing their mastery of the instrument.

adjective relating to or being a style of playing a string instrument in which the bow is made to bounce lightly on the strings

Example Sentences

A1 I like the spiccato sound of the violin.

A2 The spiccato strokes on the cello added a lively touch to the music.

B1 The spiccato technique requires precise bow control.

B2 The spiccato articulation gave the piece a playful character.

C1 Her spiccato playing was flawless and captivating.

C2 The violinist's spiccato bowing was executed with exceptional skill and artistry.

Examples of spiccato in a Sentence

formal The violinist demonstrated exquisite control in her spiccato bowing technique.

informal I tried to play spiccato on the violin, but it just sounded like a mess.

slang Dude, did you see that drummer's spiccato skills? They were insane!

figurative Her words came out in a spiccato rhythm, sharp and staccato, leaving no room for argument.

Grammatical Forms of spiccato

past tense

spiccatoed

plural

spiccatos

comparative

more spiccato

superlative

most spiccato

present tense

spiccatos

future tense

will spiccato

perfect tense

have spiccatoed

continuous tense

is spiccatoing

singular

spiccato

positive degree

spiccato

infinitive

to spiccato

gerund

spiccatoing

participle

spiccatoed

Origin and Evolution of spiccato

First Known Use: 1701 year
Language of Origin: Italian
Story behind the word: The word 'spiccato' originated from Italian.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in music notation to indicate a bowing technique where the bow is bounced lightly on the strings, the term 'spiccato' has evolved to also describe a similar technique in other art forms, such as dance and painting.