ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cornet

n. countable
C1 Advanced US //kɔɹˈnɛt// UK //kˈɔːnɪt// cor·net Archaic

n. a brass musical instrument that looks very similar to a trumpet but has a rounder, softer sound. It is often used in brass bands and jazz music.

n. a brass instrument of the trumpet family, distinguished by its conical bore and more mellow timbre. It is frequently used in traditional brass bands and early jazz ensembles.


SIMPLE

He plays the cornet in the local brass band.

CONTEXTUAL

The conductor asked the cornet section to play more softly to blend with the woodwinds.

COMPLEX

While the trumpet is known for its bright and piercing tone, the cornet offers a lyrical flexibility that made it a favorite of early jazz soloists.

Synonyms
Usage

Often confused with the trumpet; however, the cornet is more compact and has a conical rather than cylindrical bore.

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