Vocabulary Spotlight
Cadence
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The rhythmic flow or beat of sounds, words, or movements.
“The cadence of her voice made her speeches captivating and easy to follow.”
Pronunciation
[kay-dns]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Flow
Tempo
Beat
Pace
Antonyms
Disorganization
Disorder
Irregularity
Staccato
Related Words
Intonation (noun)
Modulation (noun)
Word Origin
“Cadence” originates from the Latin “cadentia,” meaning “a falling,” related to the verb “cadere,” meaning “to fall.” The term later evolved to refer to the “rise and fall” in rhythm or tone, especially in music and poetry.
Word Family
Noun: Cadence – The rhythmic flow of sounds or words.
Adjective: Cadenced – Having rhythm or a set beat.
Related Noun: Cadenza – An elaborate, often improvised musical passage with rhythmic variation.
Mnemonics
Cadets Always Dance Enthusiastically to Neatly Counted beats.
This mnemonic helps remember that cadence is associated with rhythm and flow.
Industry-specific Usage
Music
In music, cadence refers to the harmonic sequence that signifies the end of a phrase, lending resolution to a musical passage.
Speech and Rhetoric
In rhetoric, cadence is the modulation of voice, used to enhance the impact of speeches and keep listeners engaged.
Military Drill
In military contexts, cadence refers to the rhythmic chants and step sequences soldiers follow during drills and marches.
In Context
In daily conversations, cadence is heard in the natural flow of spoken language, contributing to the emphasis, tone, and rhythm of speech.
In poetry and literature, cadence adds musicality, enhancing the reader’s experience and the emotional impact of the text.
In athletics, particularly in running or cycling, cadence refers to the rhythm or pace of steps or pedal strokes, often used to measure performance and efficiency.