English Reference
Noun

fanfare

n. C / U
C1 Advanced US /ˈfænˌfɛɹ/ UK /fˈænfeə/ fan·fare UK spelling fanfares Music

n.a short, loud piece of music played on trumpets to announce someone important. It also means a lot of public attention or excitement around an event.

n.a short, loud musical flourish played on brass instruments, typically to mark an arrival or opening. In a figurative sense, it refers to an elaborate or ostentatious display of public interest.


SIMPLE

The king entered the hall to a loud trumpet fanfare.

CONTEXTUAL

The new smartphone was launched with great fanfare, including a live concert and a global press event.

COMPLEX

While the policy was introduced with considerable political fanfare, its actual implementation was quiet and faced significant bureaucratic hurdles that tempered the initial public enthusiasm.

Usage

Countable when referring to the musical piece; often uncountable when referring to general public excitement.

The milestone was acknowledged "without fanfare" ahead of the anniversary of the officer's death.

BBC News· 14 Aug 2026

This week, immigration minister Anna Turley announced, with minor fanfare, the government will stop using a further 13 hotels to house asylum seekers across the country.

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated