What is the meaning of "Legato" in musical terms?

In musical terminology, "legato" refers to a style of playing or singing that is characterized by smooth, connected notes with no perceptible breaks between them. When performers execute music legato, they create a seamless flow, allowing each note to glide into the next, which contributes to a more lyrical and expressive interpretation.

This concept contrasts with staccato, where notes are played in a short and detached manner, and also differs from sharp and punctuated, which implies a more aggressive, forceful style of performance. Similarly, the term doesn't relate to fast and lively tempos, as legato can be executed at any speed, maintaining the emphasis on the smooth transition between notes regardless of the tempo used. Understanding legato is essential for conveying the intended emotional essence of a musical piece and demonstrating technical prowess in performance.