symphony

/ˈsɪmfəni/

/ˈsɪmfəni/

Other forms: symphonies

A symphony is the name of a type of classical music (a long, complex sonata) and the large orchestra that plays that music.

If you go to a concert hall to see a piece of Beethoven or another composer, you're going to hear a symphony — a type of complicated, orchestral music played by a symphony orchestra. A symphony usually includes strings, horns, drums, piano and has a conductor to lead the group by waving a baton. You can also use this word as a comparison: A gorgeous spring day could be called a symphony of beauty and new life.

Definitions of symphony

1. noun

   a long and complex sonata for symphony orchestra
   synonyms: symphonic music

   type of:

   sonata

   a musical composition of 3 or 4 movements of contrasting forms
2. noun

   a large orchestra; can perform symphonies
   “we heard the Vienna symphony”

   synonyms: philharmonic, symphony orchestra

   type of:

   orchestra

   a musical organization consisting of a group of instrumentalists including string players