n., adv., adj., & v.
n. (pl. -os) 1 Mus. a passage gradually increasing in loudness. 2 a progress towards a climax (a crescendo of emotions). b disp. a climax (reached a crescendo then died away).
adv. & adj. with a gradual increase in loudness.
v.intr. (-oes, -oed) increase gradually in loudness or intensity.
[ It., part. of crescere grow (as CRESCENT) ]