Music . relative rapidity or rate of movement, usually indicated by such terms as adagio, allegro, etc., or by reference to the metronome.

characteristic rate, rhythm, or pattern of work or activity

the tempo of city life.

Chess . the gaining or losing of time and effectiveness relative to one's continued mobility or developing position, esp. with respect to the number of moves required to gain an objective

Black gained a tempo.

noun

bounce , cadence , downbeat , measure , meter , momentum , pace , pulse , rate , speed , time , velocity , beat , clip , timing