# piccolo

/ˈpɪkəˌɫoʊ/ (US) · /pɪkˈɒləʊ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/piccolo
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

a small flute that sounds one octave higher than a regular flute. It is the highest-pitched instrument in most orchestras.

For teachers: a small, high-pitched woodwind instrument, approximately half the size of a standard flute and sounding an octave higher. Typically constructed from wood or metal and played in the same transverse manner as the flute.

## Examples

- The piccolo plays the highest notes in the band.
- During the march, the sharp, bright sound of the piccolo was clearly audible above the rest of the woodwind section.
- While the flute provides a lyrical middle voice, the piccolo is often reserved for piercing, virtuosic passages that require a distinct brilliance to cut through a full orchestral texture.

## Usage notes

- Takes a plural form 'piccolos'; occasionally 'piccoli' in very formal or Italianate musical contexts.

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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.