# symphony

/ˈsɪmfəni/ (US) · /sˈɪmfənˌi/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/symphony
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. orchestral music

noun · CEFR B1

a long piece of music for a large group of musicians, usually divided into several parts.

For teachers: an elaborate musical composition for full orchestra, typically consisting of four movements in a specific structural form.

- The orchestra practiced for weeks before performing Beethoven's ninth symphony.
- The composer's final symphony was celebrated for its innovative use of choral elements within a traditionally instrumental framework.

Usage: Often used with a number or a name to identify the specific work.

### 2. a harmonious mix

noun · CEFR B2 · Literary

a beautiful or pleasing combination of many different things, like colors or sounds.

For teachers: a harmonious or impressive collection of diverse elements that work together effectively.

- The garden was a symphony of bright colors in the springtime.
- The chef described the dish as a symphony of flavors, balancing sharp acidity with rich, earthy undertones.

Teaching tip: This is a figurative use; learners should use it to describe something exceptionally well-coordinated or beautiful.

### 3. the orchestra itself

noun · CEFR B2 · American English · Informal

a short way to say 'symphony orchestra'.

For teachers: a metonymic reference to a symphony orchestra.

- She has been playing violin for the local symphony for ten years.
- The city's symphony struggled to maintain its funding during the economic downturn, despite high ticket sales for the winter season.

## Examples

- The orchestra performed a beautiful symphony last night.
- Beethoven's Ninth Symphony is famous for its powerful final movement featuring a full choir.
- The city at dawn was a symphony of sounds, from the distant rumble of trains to the rhythmic clatter of shop shutters opening for the day.

---

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.