Cadence

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkeɪ.dəns/

Definitions

• 1. A rhythmic flow of a sequence of sounds or words, often used in music, poetry, or speech.
• 2. The natural rhythm or pattern of movement in something, such as a person's walk or the flow of a vehicle.
• 3. A regular beat or rhythm, particularly in music, often associated with the pace or tempo of a composition.

Usage Examples

• "The cadence of the song lulled the audience into a peaceful trance."
• "Her speech had a gentle cadence that made it easy to listen to."
• "The cadence of his footsteps echoed through the empty hallway."

Etymology

The word "cadence" comes from the Latin word "cadentia," meaning "a falling" or "a decline," from "cadere," meaning "to fall." The term evolved to describe the rhythmic flow or pattern in music and speech.

Synonyms

• Rhythm
• Tempo
• Beat
• Flow
• Measure

Antonyms

• Irregularity
• Discord
• Offbeat

Translations in Major Languages

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "cadence" may slightly vary across different regions. In the UK, it is often pronounced with a softer 'e' sound, while in American English, the emphasis tends to be on the first syllable with a sharper 'a' sound.

Historical Usage

The concept of cadence has been important throughout history, particularly in music and poetry. In classical music, cadence refers to a sequence of chords that brings a phrase or a section of music to a close. In poetry, cadence refers to the rhythmic flow of words, particularly in metrical verse.

Cultural Nuances

The idea of cadence is closely linked to cultural expressions in music, such as jazz, where the cadence is often a flexible, improvisational rhythm. In some cultures, the rhythm of speech and music plays a significant role in communication, with variations in cadence reflecting emotions or social context.

More Information

Cadence is a term widely used in music, poetry, and speech to describe a rhythmic flow or the natural rise and fall of sound. In music, it refers to the ending of a musical phrase, while in speech, it refers to the natural rhythm of a person's voice. The term is also used in dance to describe the pattern of movements and in walking or running, where it refers to the pattern of footsteps. In various cultures, cadence is associated with the pacing of rituals and ceremonies, reflecting the cultural significance of rhythm in human life.