Vite

/viːt/ adverb

Definition

Quickly or swiftly (primarily used in French musical notation as 'vite' or the English equivalent 'with speed').

Etymology

From French 'vite' (quickly), from Latin 'vita' (life), with the idea of living fast or doing something with vital energy.

Kelly Says

Musicians see 'vite' in sheet music meaning 'fast,' and it comes from the same Latin root as 'vital'—ancient speakers thought speed and liveliness were connected to having vital energy.

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