symphony

noun

sym·​pho·​ny ˈsim(p)-fə-nē 

plural symphonies

1

: consonance of sounds

2

a

: ritornello sense 1

b

: sinfonia sense 1

c(1)

: a usually long and complex sonata for symphony orchestra

(2)

: a musical composition (as for organ) resembling such a symphony in complexity or variety

3

: consonance or harmony of color (as in a painting)

4

a

: symphony orchestra

b

: a symphony orchestra concert

5

: something that in its harmonious complexity or variety suggests a symphonic composition

a symphony of flavors

Synonyms

• orchestration
• symmetry
• harmony
• proportion
• balance

Examples of symphony in a Sentence

the satisfying symphony of color in Renoir's canvases

a performance of a Bach concerto by the San Antonio Symphony

Recent Examples on the Web

From the return of The Weeknd to a symphony concert with fireworks, there is a lot to do in the Bay Area this weekend and beyond. —Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 3 July 2025

Twelve of the dazzling villas overlook the Ayung River, Bali’s longest at nearly 43 miles, whose heady rush serves as the resort’s signature symphony. —Alexandra Kirkman, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025

Sonic Guild evolves symphony patronage model Since 2013, Sonic Guild has supported the creation and performance of new music with over $6 million in grants and direct payments to local musicians. —Mars Salazar, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025

As ovaries decline, hormones change, and a harmonious symphony can turn into a cacophonous noise, impacting the entire body. —Karina Zaiets, USA Today, 30 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English symphonie, from Middle French, from Latin symphonia, from Greek symphōnia, from symphōnos concordant in sound, from syn- + phōnē voice, sound — more at ban entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing symphony

• symphony orchestra

Kids Definition

symphony

noun

sym·​pho·​ny ˈsim(p)-fə-nē 

plural symphonies

1

: harmonious arrangement (as of sound or color)

a symphony of sounds in the forest

2

: a usually long musical composition for a full orchestra

3

: symphony orchestra

Etymology

Middle English symphonie "pleasing arrangement of sounds," from early French symphonie (same meaning), derived from Greek syn- "together" and phōnē "voice, sound" — related to euphony, phonetic