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fer·ma·ta | \ 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
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Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
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Time Traveler for fermata
The first known use of fermata was circa 1859
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