symphony

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

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

   classical symphony

2. 2
   noun

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

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

3. 3
   noun

   a long and complex sonata for symphony orchestra

4. 4
   noun

   a large orchestra

5. 5
   noun

   An instrumental introduction or termination to a vocal composition.

6. 6
   noun

   A symphony orchestra.

Etymology

From Middle English symphonye, from Old French simphonie, from Latin symphonia, from Ancient Greek συμφωνία (sumphōnía). By surface analysis, sym- + -phony. Doublet of sinfonia, symphonia, tsampouna, and zampogna.