crescendo
10 synonyms and 6 antonyms for crescendo, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A gradual increase in intensity, loudness, or excitement, often building to a peak.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use crescendo
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
build to a crescendo
reach a crescendo
Etymology
Borrowed from Italian crescendo, "growing", from crescere, "to grow" — originally a musical instruction to play increasingly loudly.
Full origin of crescendo →Frequently asked questions
What does “crescendo” mean?
The word “crescendo” means a gradual increase in intensity, loudness, or excitement, often building to a peak. In plain terms, a steady build-up to a high point.
How do you pronounce “crescendo”?
“Crescendo” is pronounced krih-SHEHN-doh (/kɹɪˈʃɛn.doʊ/ in IPA).
How do you use “crescendo” in a sentence?
Here is “crescendo” used in a sentence: “The applause built to a crescendo as the singer hit the final note.”
What is another word for “crescendo”?
Words with a similar meaning to “crescendo” include amplification, ascension, boost, gain, growth and increase.
What is the opposite of “crescendo”?
The opposite of “crescendo” — its antonyms — are decrescendo, diminuendo, climax, conclusion and decrease.
What part of speech is “crescendo”?
“Crescendo” is a noun.
Where does the word “crescendo” come from?
The word “crescendo” comes from Italian. Borrowed from Italian crescendo, "growing", from crescere, "to grow" — originally a musical instruction to play increasingly loudly.
