A "rest" in music refers to a symbol that indicates a pause in the sound. It signifies that musicians should stop playing or singing for a specific duration, allowing silence to be part of the composition. Rests can vary in length, corresponding to different note values, such as whole, half, quarter, or eighth rests. In written music, rests are essential for creating rhythm and structure. They help to define the timing and flow of a piece, contributing to its overall expression. Understanding rests is crucial for musicians, as they play a vital role in interpreting and performing musical compositions.