Cadence
/ˈkeɪdəns/
Definitions
2 meaningsA rhythmic flow or sequence of sounds or events.
/ˈkeɪdəns/
Rhythmic flow, beat, or sequence.
The cadence of the waves was soothing.
💡 Simply: The rhythm or beat of something.
More Examples
She spoke with a rhythmic cadence.
How It's Used
"The piece had a strong, regular cadence."
"The poem's cadence is hypnotic."
"His speech lacked cadence and rhythm."
A concluding part or section.
/ˈkeɪdəns/
A concluding phrase or passage; a closing sequence.
The cadence of the speech signaled the end of the meeting.
💡 Simply: The ending part of something.
More Examples
The piece ended with a powerful cadence.
How It's Used
"The soldiers marched in perfect cadence."
"The final cadence of the symphony was powerful."
From Middle French cadence, from Latin cadentia, from cadere "to fall". Originally referring to a falling tone in music, it later broadened to include rhythmic flow.
The word's usage has remained consistent in its focus on rhythmic flow, evolving from primarily musical contexts to broader applications in speech, poetry, and military contexts.
Memory tip
Think of the 'fall' in the etymology - a rhythmic rise and fall.