adv., adj., & n. esp. Mus.
--adv. & adj. with each sound or note sharply detached or separated from the others (cf. LEGATO, TENUTO).
--n. (pl. -os)
1. a staccato passage in music etc.
2 staccato delivery or presentation.
Phrases and idioms:
staccato mark a dot or stroke above or below a note, indicating that it is to be played staccato.
Etymology: It., past part. of staccare distaccare DETACH