Word
celeste
Phoneticsce·leste, stress on the second syllable
US/səˈɫɛst/
UK/səlˈɛst/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a musical instrument that looks like a small piano. When you press the keys, hammers hit metal plates to make a soft, bell-like sound.
n. a keyboard instrument consisting of a series of small metal plates struck by hammers that are controlled by a keyboard. Produces a delicate, ethereal timbre similar to a glockenspiel.
Examples
“The composer added a celeste to the orchestra for a magical sound.”
“In the famous 'Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy', the celeste provides the distinctive, twinkling melody.”
“While the piano provides the rhythmic foundation of the piece, the celeste enters during the bridge to create a shimmering, dreamlike atmosphere that contrasts with the darker brass section.”
Examples
simple
“The composer added a celeste to the orchestra for a magical sound.”
contextual
“In the famous 'Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy', the celeste provides the distinctive, twinkling melody.”
complex
“While the piano provides the rhythmic foundation of the piece, the celeste enters during the bridge to create a shimmering, dreamlike atmosphere that contrasts with the darker brass section.”
Usage
Often referred to as a 'celesta' in orchestral scores; both spellings are acceptable.
Etymology
Borrowed from French Céleste, ultimately from Latin caelestis (“heavenly”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Idioms
01. Mary Celeste
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C2 ProficiencyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.8.5–9.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 6.0114–120
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C2 · Proficiency
- Updated
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