decrescendo

Gradually getting softer

A decrescendo is a gradual decrease in loudness in music, the opposite of crescendo.

The term serves as both noun and direction to performers: The symphony ends with a long decrescendo into silence.

Figuratively, any gradual fading or diminishing: The controversy ended not with confrontation but with a decrescendo of public interest.

dynamics

pianissimo

Extremely quiet, in scores

softeningBecoming less firm
quietingMaking something still
dying awayGradually becoming inaudible

fading out · morendo · diminuendo · hushing · muting · attenuating · tapering · sotto voce · fadeout · softly

gradual

tapering

Progressive decrease in width

waningGradually decreasing in intensity
ebbingGradually declining or receding
dwindlingProgressively becoming smaller

subsiding · lessening · declining · receding · fading · diminishing · trailing off · petering out · dying down · slowing

emotional

calming

Inducing a settled state

soothingReducing distress or discomfort
settlingReaching resolution or rest
unwindingReleasing coiled tension

decompressing · relaxing · quietude · tranquility · resolution · denouement · catharsis · coming down · repose

notation

hairpin

U-shaped fastener for tresses

wedgeTapered splitting tool

Categories

soundsound, sound waves, echoes, acoustics, vibrations
choiralto, soprano, tenor, bass section, baritone
music elementsmelody, harmony vocals, rhythm, beat, chord
musicianshipsinging, playing, performing, practicing, harmonizing
singing termsduet, aria, hum, alto, soprano
volumecubic meters, bulk, cubic feet, quantity, cubic inches

Opposites

musical dynamics direction

decrescendocrescendo

Gradual increase in loudness

increasing · swelling · building · rising · amplifying

volume level

decrescendofortissimo

Very loud, musically

forte · loud · blaring · booming · thunderous

Family

Familiarity: Top 200,000
Profile: Used worldwide · Timeless · Rated G