What does mezzo mean in English?

"Mezzo" is an Italian word that means "middle" or "half". It's often used in English as part of compound words to indicate something that is medium in size or intensity.

Here are some examples:

* Mezzo-soprano: A female singing voice that is between soprano and alto.

* Mezzanine: A floor built between two main floors of a building, typically smaller and with a lower ceiling.

* Mezzotint: A type of printmaking technique that produces a soft, velvety effect.

* Mezzogiorno: A word meaning "midday" or "noon," specifically used in Italy to refer to the southern part of the country.

So, "mezzo" basically conveys the idea of something that's in between two extremes.