1. gradually becoming slower in tempo
Usage: music

1. marked by a gradual decrease in tempo
Usage: music

1. a musical passage performed with gradually decreasing tempo
Usage: music

Examples

• The pianist played the final measures rallentando.
• The conductor signaled for a rallentando in the last phrase.
• The rallentando passage created a beautiful, contemplative mood.
• She executed the rallentando perfectly, slowing the tempo gradually.
• The symphony ended with a dramatic rallentando.
• The composer marked rallentando in the score at measure 64.