rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryorchestraMusical ensemble
noun

orchestra

OR-kih-struh/ˈɔːrkɪstrə/

A large group of instrumental musicians who perform together.

The orchestra follows the conductor as the musicians play together.

A compact classical ensemble plays together under a conductor: two violins, cello, flute and French horn, coherent hand positions and instrument anatomy; few chairs and music stands with blank pages.
Etymology
orchesGreekto dance
+traGreekplace

The Greek pieces describe a dancing place, originally the theater space where the chorus performed. The name later passed from that space to the musicians occupying a corresponding position near the stage.

In context

Philharmonia Orchestra18:29
view the orchestra from all angles. And the revolutionary BeatMap shows you who is playing when. Follow along with synchronised scores, hear the inside scoop in audio commentaries, and get a 360 degree view of all the instruments.
Instrument: Cello

More examples

  • She plays the cello in the city orchestra.
  • The orchestra rehearses a new symphony for Saturday's concert.
  • Two youth orchestras perform at the festival each spring.

Forms

orchestra · orchestras

orchestral adjective — Relating to or written for an orchestra.

Similar words

ensemble
A broader term for groups of instrumentalists or singers.
band
Often features winds or amplified instruments rather than orchestral strings.