# philharmonic

/ˌfɪɫˌhɑɹˈmɑnɪk/ (US) · /fˌɪlhɑːmˈɒnɪk/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a large group of musicians who play classical music together. It is another name for a symphony orchestra.

For teachers: a large-scale musical ensemble, typically a symphony orchestra, dedicated to the performance of classical works. Capitalised when part of a specific organisation name.

## Examples

- The local philharmonic performs every Friday night.
- After years of practice, the young violinist finally earned a seat in the city's prestigious philharmonic.
- The philharmonic's interpretation of the symphony was praised for its emotional depth and the seamless integration of the brass and woodwind sections.

## Usage notes

- Often functions as a proper noun when part of a specific orchestra's name.

---

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.