legato
UK[lɪˈɡɑːtəʊ]US[lɪˈɡɑːtoʊ]
adv
in a smooth, flowing manner, without breaks between notes.
adj
performed in a smooth, flowing manner.
Etymology
the term 'legato' is borrowed directly from italian, where it is the past participle of the verb 'legare', meaning 'to tie' or 'to bind'. this italian verb itself originates from the latin 'ligāre', which carries the same core meaning of binding or tying together. the musical instruction, which entered english usage in the early 19th century, is a metaphorical extension of this literal sense, directing the performer to bind or connect the notes smoothly. thus, the journey from the physical act of tying in ancient latin to the abstract concept of seamless musical connection perfectly illustrates the word's logical evolution.
Analysis
this word is an italian loanword adopted directly into english musical terminology. it is not segmented into smaller meaningful parts within english.
Examples
the pianist played the melodic passage with a beautiful, singing legato.
the composer's notation clearly indicates that the phrase should be performed legato.
achieving a true legato on the violin requires precise bow control and finger coordination.