# synthesizer

/ˈsɪnθəˌsaɪzɝ/ (US) · /sˈɪnθəsˌaɪzɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/synthesizer
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

an electronic machine that makes and changes sounds. You use it to create music by pressing keys or buttons and adjusting different settings.

For teachers: an electronic instrument that generates and modifies sounds through the use of oscillators and filters. It can produce a wide range of tones, from realistic imitations of acoustic instruments to entirely artificial electronic sounds.

## Examples

- The band uses a synthesizer to create their unique electronic sound.
- Modern music producers often use a digital synthesizer to layer complex textures over traditional drum beats.
- While early models relied on analog circuits to generate waveforms, contemporary synthesizers often use digital signal processing to achieve a level of precision and versatility that was previously impossible.

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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.