fortissimo

American  

[fawr-tis-uh-moh, fawr-tees-see-maw] / fɔrˈtɪs əˌmoʊ, fɔrˈtis siˌmɔ /

adjective

1. (a direction) very loud.

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adverb

1. (a direction) very loudly.

fortissimo British  

/ fɔːˈtɪsɪˌməʊ /

adjective

1.  ff.  very loud

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noun

1. a very loud passage in music

fortissimo Cultural  

1. A musical direction meaning “to be performed very loudly”; the opposite of pianissimo.

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Etymology

Origin of fortissimo

1715–25; < Italian; superlative of forte forte ²

Example Sentences

There is not yet much coming with “Something Coming,” but his agile voice is a clean, clear tenor projectile expandable into operatic fortissimos and toned down into sweet, soft Broadway-esque whispers.

From Los Angeles Times

When the 48-year-old conductor leans forward to extend his arms and emphasize vibrato or stretches high for a fortissimo during an orchestra concert, the red soles of his patent leather Christian Louboutins become visible.

From Seattle Times

On Thursday, the orchestra showed off the clarity of fortissimo passages, layering percussion, brass and strings in handsome tiers.

From New York Times

Wang is nimble at that alternation, with power and accuracy in fast fingerwork and fortissimo chords — and, just as important, patience and elegance in cooler moments.

From New York Times

“Some players go for it and some… I really had to say, ‘No that fortissimo isn’t enough.’

From Seattle Times