What does the word decay in musical terms?

In music, decay is a term that refers to the gradual decrease in the amplitude or intensity of a sound over time. It is the opposite of attack, which is the increase in amplitude at the beginning of a note. Decay is an important part of sound synthesis, as it helps to create more natural and realistic sounds.

The decay time is the amount of time it takes for a sound to decrease from its peak level to a specified level, usually measured in milliseconds (ms). A shorter decay time will result in a more staccato or abrupt sound, while a longer decay time will result in a more sustained or reverberant sound. Decay time can be controlled using a variety of effects, such as reverberation, delay, and compression.

Decay can also be used to create special effects, such as swelling and fading. In a swelling effect, the decay time is gradually increased over time, causing the sound to gradually become louder. In a fading effect, the decay time is gradually decreased over time, causing the sound to gradually become softer.

Here are some examples of how decay is used in different instruments:

- In a piano, the decay time is determined by the length of the strings and the amount of felt used to dampen the strings.

- In a guitar, the decay time is determined by the type of wood used for the body of the guitar, the thickness of the strings, and the amount of sustain produced by the guitar's pickups.

- In a synthesizer, the decay time is determined by the settings of the envelope generator.

Decay is an essential element of sound synthesis, and it can be used to create a wide variety of different sounds. By experimenting with different decay times and effects, you can create your own unique sounds and musical textures.