fermata

fer·ma·ta

noun \fer-ˈmä-tə\

Definition of FERMATA

: a prolongation at the discretion of the performer of a musical note, chord, or rest beyond its given time value; also : the sign ·̑ denoting such a prolongation —called also hold

Origin of FERMATA

Italian, literally, stop, from fermare to stop, from Latin firmare to make firm

First Known Use: circa 1859

Rhymes with FERMATA

balata, cantata, errata, frittata, Maratha, pro rata, regatta, ricotta, sonata, Sorata, toccata