What does "piano" mean in terms of dynamics?

The term "piano" in music dynamics specifically indicates that a passage should be played softly. It originates from the Italian word for "soft," and is used to guide musicians on how to express volume and intensity in their performance. In notated music, "piano" serves as an instruction for performers to reduce their volume, contrasting with other dynamic markings like "forte," which signifies playing loudly. Recognizing these terms is essential for interpreting and performing music accurately, as they greatly impact the emotional delivery and overall texture of a piece.