# cornet

/kɔɹˈnɛt/ (US) · /kˈɔːnɪt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cornet
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- He plays the cornet in the local brass band.
- The conductor asked the cornet section to play more softly to blend with the woodwinds.
- 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.

## Usage notes

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

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.