STACCATO

[adjective], [adverb], [noun] - (musical notes which are) shortened and separate when playedThe music suddenly changed from a smooth melody to a staccato rhythm.She played the whole piece staccato to improve her technique.He practised his staccato so it was always crisp and clean.If a noise is described as being staccato, it consists of a series of short and separate sounds.She gave brief staccato replies to every question.As the plane passed overhead, we heard the staccato burst of anti-aircraft fire.(figurative) The sharp staccato style he used in his last book was very popular with the critics.