# acciaccatura

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/acciaccatura
Updated: 2026-06-04

## Definition

a small note played very quickly before a main note. It is used in music to add a short, sharp sound to the main melody.

For teachers: a grace note that is played simultaneously with the main note or immediately before it, typically in a rapid, percussive manner. Often used in Baroque and classical music to ornament a melody.

## Examples

- The pianist added an acciaccatura to the first note of the melody.
- In the original score, the composer indicates an acciaccatura on the second beat to create a more dramatic entrance for the theme.
- While the appoggiatura is held for a portion of the main note's duration, the acciaccatura is executed as a brief, detached strike that does not displace the primary rhythmic value.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.