In musical dynamics, what does "forte" signify?

"Forte" is a term used in music dynamics that indicates a passage should be played loudly. It originates from the Italian word for "strong." In sheet music, it is usually represented by the letter 'f.' When musicians see this marking, they understand that they should produce a sound that is powerful and robust, enhancing the emotional impact of the performance. This dynamic is often used in various musical contexts to convey intensity, excitement, or dramatic emphasis, making it an essential concept for performers to understand in order to interpret the music as intended by the composer.