Meaning of the word tenuto in English

What does tenuto mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

tenuto

US /təˈnuːtoʊ/
UK /təˈnuː.təʊ/
"tenuto" picture

Adverb

(especially as a direction) held on for its full time value or slightly longer

Example:
The violinist played the note tenuto, giving it a rich, sustained sound.
The conductor marked the passage tenuto to emphasize the sustained chords.

Noun

a symbol (a short horizontal line) indicating that a note or chord is to be held for its full time value or slightly longer

Example:
The composer used a tenuto mark above the note to indicate its sustained duration.
A tenuto can also imply a slight emphasis or articulation.