continuo

[kuhn-tin-yoo-oh]

noun

Music.

plural

continuos 

1. a keyboard accompanying part consisting originally of a figured bass, which in modern scores is usually realized, and serving to provide or fill out the harmonic texture.

continuo

/ kənˈtɪnjʊˌəʊ /

noun

1. music

   1. a shortened form of basso continuo See thorough bass

   2. ( as modifier )

      a continuo accompaniment

2. the thorough-bass part as played on a keyboard instrument, often supported by a cello, bassoon, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuo¹

1715–25; < Italian: literally, continuous

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuo¹

Italian, literally: continuous