Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
ritard
Musical term
/rɪˈtɑrd/

Definition
A marked decrease in tempo in a piece of music.

Examples
- The conductor instructed the orchestra to ritard at the final measure of the symphony.
- As the song progressed, the singer chose to ritard, creating a dramatic effect.

Meaning
Ritard is used in music notation to indicate a gradual slowing down of the tempo, usually towards the end of a phrase or piece.

Synonyms
- Slow down
- Decelerate
- Relax