P

adj. & adv. (Mus.) Soft; - a direction to the performer to execute a certain passage softly, and with diminished volume of tone. (Abbreviated p.).

 - n. (Mus.) A well-known musical instrument somewhat resembling the harpsichord, and consisting of a series of wires of graduated length, thickness, and tension, struck by hammers moved by keys. Dumb piano. See Digitorium.

 - Grand piano. See under Grand.

 - Square piano, one with a horizontal frame and an oblong case.

 - Upright piano, one with an upright frame and vertical wires.