Scherzo (noun)

A lively, playful piece of music, typically the third movement of a sonata or symphony, characterized by rapid rhythm and lighthearted humor.

Origin:

Derived from the italian word 'scherzare' meaning 'to joke'.

Examples:

1. Beethoven's famous scherzo is one of the most recognizable pieces of classical music.
2. The pianist's performance of the Chopin scherzo was both lively and playful.
3. The scherzo was the highlight of the concert for many people in the audience.
4. The scherzo was composed in a fast triple meter and had a playful, bouncy melody.
5. The scherzo was a stark contrast to the serious, somber tone of the first two movements of the symphony.