Which musical term refers to the number of stresses in a measure?

The musical term that refers to the number of stresses in a measure is the time signature. A time signature indicates how many beats are in each measure of music and what note value is equivalent to a single beat. For instance, a time signature of 4/4 means there are four beats per measure, with the quarter note receiving one beat. The time signature plays a crucial role in defining the rhythmic structure of a piece, affecting how strong or weak certain beats are perceived.

In contrast, a metronome is a device that marks time at a set tempo, providing a consistent beat for musicians to follow. Tempo itself refers to the speed of the music, indicating how fast or slow a piece should be played, rather than the organization of beats. Syncopation involves the rhythmic emphasis on weak beats or offbeats, creating a sense of tension or surprise, but it does not describe the overall count of beats within a measure.