rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryinstrumentalMusic without singing
adjective / noun

instrumental

Music played on instruments rather than sung.

The band plays an instrumental while the singer takes a break.

Etymology
instrumentLatintool; instrument
+alEnglishrelating to

Instrument names a tool or means of making something, including musical sound. The adjective identifies music produced with musical instruments rather than the singing voice.

More examples

  • She listens to instrumental music while she studies.
  • This instrumental version leaves out the original vocals.
  • The album opens with two lively instrumentals.

Forms

instrumental · instrumentals

instrument noun — A device used to make music.

instrumentalist noun — A musician who plays an instrument.

Similar words

wordless
May include humming or other voices, unlike instrumental music.