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.
Etymology: It., part. of crescere grow (as CRESCENT)