symphony — English Dictionary

Noun

1. An extended piece of music of sophisticated structure, usually for orchestra.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   classical symphony

   compose a symphony

   More examples (2)

   full symphony orchestra

   The orchestra performed Beethoven’s Fifth symphony.

2. An instrumental introduction or termination to a vocal composition.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

3. Harmony in music or colour, or a harmonious combination of elements.

   Usage

   • Countable
   • Uncountable

   Examples

   She described the city at night as a symphony of lights and sounds.

4. A symphony orchestra.

   Usage

   • US usage
   • Countable
   • Informal
   • Uncountable

Noun

1. a long and complex sonata for symphony orchestra

   Synonyms

   symphonic music

   Broader terms

   sonata

2. a large orchestra; can perform symphonies

   Synonyms

   symphony orchestraphilharmonic

   Broader terms

   orchestra

   Examples

   we heard the Vienna symphony