nachschlag

noun

nach·​schlag

ˈnäḵˌshläk

plural nachschläge

-lāgə

or nachschlags

1

: a musical ornament consisting of one or several short unaccented grace notes attached to and played in the time of the preceding main note or tone

2

: the auxiliary closing note or notes usually played at the end of a trill

Word History

Etymology

German, literally, afterstroke, from Middle High German nāchslac blow struck from behind, from nāch after, behind (from Old High German nāh) + slac blow (from Old High German slag); akin to Old High German slahan to beat, strike

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now