fermata

noun

fer·​ma·​ta fer-ˈmä-tə How to pronounce fermata (audio)
: 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

Examples of fermata in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The bridge received special treatment with a revised set of more ambitious chords and a fermata — an extended hold as pieces of electronica create otherworldly atmospherics. — Tom Roland, Billboard, 16 Oct. 2024 The majestic tranquility of Kind of Blue marks a kind of fermata in jazz. — James Kaplan, The Atlantic, 6 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

circa 1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fermata was circa 1859

Rhymes for fermata

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Browse Nearby Words

Fermat's principle
fermata
ferment
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fermata.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fermata. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.

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