continuo

 
Pronunciation: /kənˈtɪnjʊəʊ/
(also basso continuo)

noun (plural continuos)

[mass noun]
  • (in baroque music) an accompanying part which includes a bass line and harmonies, typically played on a keyboard instrument and with other instruments such as cello or lute: the piece is scored for flute, violin, viola da gamba, and continuo [with modifier]: both recordings use harpsichord continuo [as modifier]: members of the continuo group

Origin:

early 18th century: Italian basso continuo 'continuous bass'