What is the term used to denote a style of play that is slow and relaxed?

The term that denotes a style of play that is slow and relaxed is "adagio." This term comes from Italian, where it literally translates to "at ease." In music, adagio typically indicates a tempo that is slower than andante but faster than largo, providing a leisurely pace that often evokes a sense of calm and tranquility in the performance. The use of adagio allows composers to articulate music with expressive phrasing, creating an atmosphere that encourages emotional reflection or contemplation.

In contrast, allegretto refers to a moderately fast tempo that is brighter in character, while accelerando indicates a gradual increase in speed, creating a sense of urgency and movement. Prestissimo denotes an extremely fast tempo, which completely contrasts the notion of being slow and relaxed. Thus, adagio is the most appropriate choice for describing a style of play that conveys a relaxed and unhurried musical expression.