What does presto mean?
Presto is an Italian-derived word now used principally as a musical direction meaning “very quickly.” A composer or performer may mark a passage presto to indicate a fast, energetic tempo, sometimes with a further qualification such as presto marcato. Outside music, presto can also mean rapidly or immediately, although this use often has a theatrical or humorous quality. The expression “Presto!” is especially associated with magicians announcing that an object has appeared or vanished. Its associations with speed and instantaneous transformation give it a memorable dramatic force. The word entered English from Italian presto, meaning “quick” or “quickly,” and became established as a musical term before extending into ordinary and theatrical usage. Although modern English is more likely to use rapidly or at once in neutral contexts, presto remains valuable for its concise musical force and its vivid connection with conjuring.
At a very quick tempo; rapidly or immediately.
"The orchestra played the closing passage presto."
The musical use is the most distinctive today. In ordinary speech, presto often conveys urgency, theatricality, or comic emphasis.
An exclamation used to signal a sudden appearance, disappearance, or transformation, especially during a magic performance.
"“Presto!” cried the magician as the silver coins filled the air."
Before the rabbit could be seen, there was a shout of “Presto!”—the word borrowed from Italian has helped stage magicians make things appear in an instant for generations.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of presto
Presto was borrowed into English from Italian presto, meaning “quick” or “quickly,” ultimately from Latin praestus, meaning “ready” or “at hand.” Its musical use developed from the Italian convention of naming tempos, with presto denoting a very rapid speed. The exclamation used by stage magicians also draws on the Italian word and became a familiar signal for an instantaneous magical change.
How presto is actually used
As a musical direction, presto is usually written in italics and indicates a very rapid tempo. As an ordinary adverb, it can sound deliberately dramatic or theatrical. The exclamation “Presto!” is now familiar even to people with no particular knowledge of stage magic.
Easily confused with presto
Pesto is an Italian sauce made from basil, while presto is an Italian musical term meaning very quickly.