A gradual increase in loudness or intensity in a piece of music. The orchestra built up to a powerful crescendo that left the audience in awe.
The peak or climax of a gradual increase, especially in intensity or force. The debate reached a crescendo as both sides passionately presented their arguments.
A symbol (<) or the abbreviation “cresc.” in sheet music indicating that a passage should be played progressively louder. The composer marked a crescendo in bar 32 to build excitement.