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spiccato

adjective
spic·​ca·​to | \ spi-ˈkä-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce spiccato (audio) \

Definition of spiccato

 (Entry 1 of 2)

: performed with a slight lifting of the bow after each note —used as a direction in music

spiccato

noun
plural spiccatos

Definition of spiccato (Entry 2 of 2)

: a spiccato technique, performance, or passage

Examples of spiccato in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web: Noun

 Every tackle and pass intertwined with serene pizzicati, rhythmic spiccato and even the droning noise of electric guitars. — BenoÎt Morenne, New York Times, "Croatia Beat Spain, 2-1, but the Notable Score Came From the Orchestra," 23 June 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'spiccato.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of spiccato

Adjective

circa 1724, in the meaning defined above

Noun

circa 1903, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for spiccato

Adjective

Italian, past participle of spiccare to detach, pick off

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Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with spiccato

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