orchestrate

verb

or·​ches·​trate ˈȯr-kə-ˌstrāt 

orchestrated; orchestrating

transitive verb

1

a

: to compose or arrange (music) for an orchestra

The composer orchestrated the music for the symphony orchestra.

b

: to provide with orchestration

orchestrate a ballet

2

: to arrange or combine so as to achieve a desired or maximum effect

orchestrated preparations for the banquet

a carefully orchestrated stunt

orchestrator

ˈȯr-kə-ˌstrā-tər 

noun

or less commonly orchestrater

Examples of orchestrate in a Sentence

He recently orchestrated a musical.

She orchestrated the entire event.

It's still unclear who was responsible for orchestrating the attack.

A strike was orchestrated by union members.

Recent Examples on the Web

Dali plays a pivotal role in the midfield, orchestrating the attack with vision and precision. —Fernando Ramirez, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 Aug. 2025

City hopes to add capacity for bulk cleanup Residents will likely be aided by other cleanup measures as the city tries to orchestrate an enhanced plan of action. —Jim Riccioli, jsonline.com, 14 Aug. 2025

Solomon Pena orchestrated the attacks in Albuquerque, New Mexico's largest city, weeks after losing his bid for a state house seat. —USA Today, 14 Aug. 2025

In fact, Dodgers fans recently orchestrated an ovation for Betts to show their appreciation and support. —Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for orchestrate

• abdicate
• abrogate
• acetate
• activate
• actuate
• adsorbate
• aggravate
• agitate
• alginate
• alienate
• allocate
• amputate

Kids Definition

orchestrate

verb

or·​ches·​trate ˈȯr-kə-ˌstrāt 

orchestrated; orchestrating

1

: to write or arrange music for an orchestra

2

: to arrange or combine so as to get the best effect

orchestration

ˌȯr-kə-ˈstrā-shən

noun