WordGarden.iosymphony
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈɪmfənˌi/
US
- /ˈsɪmfəni/
Meanings
Noun
a long orchestral musical composition, typically in several movements
a symphony orchestra or comparable orchestral performing group
a harmonious combination of sounds, colors, flavors, or other elements
Beyond the definition
A symphony is first of all a long piece of music written for an orchestra. When people use the word, this is usually what they mean. It often has several parts, called movements, and it is built to feel rich, full, and carefully shaped. Think of many instruments working together to create one large musical story.
The word can also be used in a figurative way for any beautiful mix of sounds, colors, flavors, or actions working together. A meal might be called a symphony of flavors, or a busy street might feel like a symphony of sounds. Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is famous for its dramatic opening: da-da-da-dum.
The word "symphony" comes from Greek and suggests the idea of things "sounding together." In modern English, it mainly refers to a large musical work for orchestra. A symphony is usually divided into several movements, and each movement adds something different in speed, mood, or character while still belonging to one complete piece.
This is the meaning most learners need first. When someone says they are listening to a symphony, writing a symphony, or performing a symphony, they are almost always talking about this kind of orchestral composition. Many famous examples were written by composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, Brahms, and Mahler.
The word is also often used figuratively. In this wider sense, it describes a pleasing and complex combination of parts that work together beautifully. You might read about a symphony of colors in a garden, a symphony of flavors in a meal, or a symphony of sounds in a city at night. This use keeps the idea of many different parts joining to make one strong whole.
So, whether it names a major orchestral work or a vivid blend of elements in everyday writing, "symphony" carries the sense of richness, balance, and many parts working together as one.
Examples
- 1
Concert performance
We heard Beethoven's Fifth Symphony at the concert hall last night.
- 2
Composition
She's composing a symphony for full orchestra and choir.
- 3
Orchestral demands
The conductor says Mahler's symphonies demand both power and patience from the players.
- 4
Nature sounds
By sunrise, the forest had become a symphony of birdsong.
- Patterna symphony of + sounds
a rich, impressive combination of sounds
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Festival atmosphere
On festival night, the street was a symphony of light, music, and laughter.
- Patterna symphony of + things
a striking mix of different things
See also
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- symphonynoun
Forms
- symphoniespluralnoun