ca
dence
Plural
cadences
1
the rhythmic emphasis or stress placed on a syllable within a metrical foot of verse
Cadence refers to the rhythmic flow and pattern of sounds in speech or writing, particularly in poetry. It encompasses the rise and fall of voice, the length of pauses, and the arrangement of stressed and unstressed syllables. In poetry, cadence contributes to the overall musicality and emotional impact of a piece, helping to convey mood and meaning. Overall, cadence plays a crucial role in shaping how words are experienced, enhancing the expressive quality of language and sound.
- The poet adjusted the cadence to maintain the iambic rhythm.
- Each line's cadence reinforced the emotional tone of the stanza.
- The shift in cadence gave the verse a jarring, unexpected beat.
- She studied the cadence of Shakespeare's sonnets to mimic their flow.
- The poem's natural cadence made it easy to recite aloud.
2
a recurring pattern of beats or movements that creates a sense of rhythm
Cadence in running refers to the number of steps a runner takes per minute. It is an important factor in determining running efficiency, as a higher cadence typically indicates faster, more controlled movement. Runners aim for a cadence that allows them to maintain a consistent pace without wasting energy. A common target is around 180 steps per minute, though this can vary depending on the runner's fitness level and goals. Improving cadence can help reduce the risk of injury and improve speed, as it often leads to better form and less impact on the joints.
- The runner's footsteps formed a steady cadence on the trail.
- His speech had a hypnotic cadence that held the audience's attention.
- The dancers moved in perfect cadence with the drums.
- The waves crashed with a soothing cadence against the shore.
- Her typing had a rapid cadence, like a machine in motion.
Synonyms:
3
a sequence of musical notes or chords that marks the conclusion of a phrase, section, or entire composition
A cadence is a musical term that refers to a sequence of chords or notes that brings a phrase, section, or piece of music to a close. It acts as a musical "punctuation mark", signaling the end of a musical thought or section. Cadences can vary in style and strength, from a strong and final-sounding cadence that clearly marks the end, to a weaker or more open-ended cadence that creates a sense of continuation or suspense. They help to structure the music and provide a sense of resolution or pause.
- The symphony ended with a dramatic cadence in D major.
- The final cadence resolved the tension built throughout the piece.
- The choir held the last note of the cadence in perfect harmony.
- The composer used a deceptive cadence to surprise the listener.
- That lingering cadence gave the piece a haunting finish.