What does the term 'lent' refer to when describing tempo?

The term 'lent' in the context of tempo signifies a slow pace of music. It originates from the Italian term "lento," which directly translates to "slow." In musical compositions, this tempo indication instructs performers to play in a leisurely and relaxed manner, often allowing for expressive phrasing and emotional depth. Understanding tempo markings is crucial for conveying the intended mood of a piece; thus, recognizing 'lent' as embodying a slower tempo helps musicians interpret and perform the music more accurately.