Staccato
Etymology
Italian "staccato," past participle of "staccare" (to detach), a shortening of "distaccare." It marks notes to be cut apart rather than joined.
adjective · /stuh-KAH-toh/
Played in short, sharply detached notes with clear gaps between them.
What it names
A way of articulating notes — clipped and separated — and the word now lends itself to any clipped delivery, like staccato speech or staccato gunfire.
Example
The pianist attacked the theme in staccato jabs, each note snapping off before the next.
Related idea
Staccato is its own opposite’s foil: legato means bound, smooth, each note flowing into the next without a break. The same phrase played legato feels lyrical; played staccato it feels nervous or urgent.
adjective / adverb · /stuh-KAH-toh/
Made up of short, sharp, disconnected sounds or movements.
What it names
abrupt, clipped rhythm outside music.
Example
The staccato crack of gunfire echoed down the street.
Related idea
The musical marking applied to any choppy, detached delivery.
See also