orchestra

Definition

A large group of musicians who play together on various instruments, usually including some from strings, woodwind, brass and/or percussion; the instruments played by such a group.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin orchēstra, itself a borrowing from Ancient Greek ὀρχήστρα (orkhḗstra) (a derivative of ὀρχέομαι (orkhéomai, “to dance”)).

Example Sentences

• "The orchestra plays music for the dancers to dance to in the 19th century-styled dance hall."
• "It requires quite an orchestra to get a train to start; the guard blows his horn, the stationmaster rings a large bell, and the engine whistles."
• "Musicians play their instruments. I play the orchestra."