Cadence Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈkeɪdnəs/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

In music, cadence refers to the ending or final part of a piece, often marked by a rhythmic pattern or a harmonious sequence of chords. In linguistics, cadence is the rhythm or flow of speech, used to convey emphasis, mood, or emotional tone.

Examples

• The symphony ended with a glorious cadence, leaving the audience in awe.
• The poet used cadence to convey the emotional intensity of the poem.
• The drummer’s cadence was exceptional, holding the crowd’s attention throughout the performance.
• She spoke with a persuasive cadence, convincing her audience of her argument.
• Cadence is essential in oratory, as it helps to engage and persuade the audience.
• The speechwriter aimed to create a cadence that would resonate with the audience and drive home the message.

Synonyms

• Rhythm
• Meter
• Pulse

Antonyms

• Dissonance
• Harmony

Etymology

The word “cadence” originates from the Latin “cadere,” meaning “to fall,” and was first used in the 14th century to describe the ending or final part of a poem or song.

Usage Notes

In music, cadence is typically used to describe the final section of a piece, often marked by a clear and definitive conclusion. In linguistics, cadence is more fluid and can vary depending on the context and the speaker’s intention. When using cadence in speech or writing, it’s essential to consider the audience and the purpose of the message.

Cultural References

Cadence has been used in various cultural and artistic contexts, including music, poetry, and film. For example, the phrase “cadence of the sea” is often used to describe the rhythmic patterns of waves crashing against the shore.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• cadence of the sea
• to beat to a different cadence

Related Words or Phrases

• Timing
• Rhythm
• Meter
• Pulse

Collocations

• writing with cadence
• speaking with cadence
• playing with cadence
• moving with cadence

Frequency of Use

Cadence is a commonly used term in music and linguistics, but its frequency of use can vary depending on the context and the speaker’s intentions. In modern language, cadence is often used to convey emphasis, mood, or emotional tone.

Common Misspellings

• cadens
• cadencey
• cadance