Pronunciation: [pˈə͡ʊkə͡ʊ] (IPA) 
The word "poco" is commonly used in Spanish and Italian to mean "a little" or "a bit." In IPA phonetic transcription, it can be spelled as /ˈpɔko/ or /ˈpɒko/. The first syllable is pronounced with an open "o" sound like "aw" in "saw." The second syllable has a short "o" sound like "ah" in "spa." The "c" is pronounced as a hard "k" sound. Overall, the word has a light and playful sound to it.
Poco is an Italian musical term that is predominantly used in the realm of music notation and performance. It is an adverb that translates to "a little," "a bit," "slightly," or "somewhat" in English. In the context of music, poco is used to indicate a slight adjustment or variation in tempo, volume, or expression. It serves as a directive to the musicians or performers, highlighting that the specified characteristic should be altered subtly or to a small degree.
For instance, if a musical passage is marked poco allegro, it implies that the tempo should be slightly faster than the general tempo marked as allegro. Similarly, if a section is denoted poco fortissimo, it means that the musicians should play a bit louder than the prevailing fortissimo volume.
The term poco is versatile and can be combined with various musical instructions like poco a poco (little by little), meaning to gradually make small changes, or poco crescendo (a little crescendo), instructing the performer to increase the volume or intensity of sound slightly.
Overall, poco is a crucial notation element that enables composers, conductors, and musicians to communicate nuanced musical intentions, facilitating the interpretation and performance of pieces with specific variations in tempo, dynamics, or expression.
In music, a term indicating the time or movement, and signifying a little less, as opposed to piu, a little more.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "poco" has its origins in the Spanish language. It comes from the Latin word "paucus", which means "few" or "little". Over time, "paucus" evolved into "poco" in Spanish, retaining a similar meaning of "small" or "few". This word is also found in other Romance languages, such as Italian ("poco"), Portuguese ("pouco"), and Catalan ("poc"). In English, "poco" is often used as a musical term indicating a slow tempo or a little bit.
