# fanfare

/ˈfænˌfɛɹ/ (US) · /fˈænfeə/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/fanfare
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The king entered the hall to a loud trumpet fanfare.
- The new smartphone was launched with great fanfare, including a live concert and a global press event.
- 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 notes

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

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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.