Accompagnato

Part of speech: adjective, verb

Definitions

1. A musical term denoting a composition or passage that is complemented by an instrumental accompaniment
2. referring to a style where one melody is supported by harmonies or providing support to a solo vocal line
3. used to describe performances where the main voice or instrument is paired with chords or orchestral elements for enhanced expression

Etymology: "Accompagnato" is a musical term borrowed from Italian, where it is the past participle of "accompagnare," meaning "to accompany." The Italian verb itself comes from "accompagnare" built from "ac-" (a form of "ad," "to") and "compagno," a companion, which ultimately derives from Late Latin "companio," one who shares bread. In the Italian verb, accompagnare, the sense of keeping someone company has the same root as the English word "companion." In music, the term describes a recitative, or sung passage in opera and oratorio, that is supported by a full orchestra rather than only a harpsichord or cello. That distinction matters: the ordinary recitative, called "secco" or dry, was accompanied only by sparse continuo instruments, while the accompagnato form lets the orchestra swell and respond to the singer's emotion. The adjective therefore names a texture, the singer being literally "accompanied" in a fuller, more expressive way.

Synonyms: accompanied, supported, backed

Antonyms: unaccompanied, unsupported