scherzi

noun pl. scherzos or scherzi

1. a lively, playful composition, usually in 3/4 time
2. such a piece serving as a movement, typically the third movement, of a sonata, symphony, or quartet

Origin: It, a jest, sport < Gmc, as in MHG schërz, pleasure, play, ult. < IE base *(s)ker-, to leap, jump > scare, L cardo, a hinge, turning point