Clarinet

/ˈklær.ɪ.nɛt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A woodwind instrument with a single-reed mouthpiece, a straight cylindrical body, and a flared bell, used in various musical genres.
She played a beautiful melody on her clarinet during the concert.
A member of the woodwind family that traditionally comes in several sizes, including the Bb clarinet and the bass clarinet.
The orchestra featured several types of clarinets, including the bass clarinet and the E-flat clarinet.
The sound produced by a clarinet.
The clarinet's rich tone added depth to the chamber music piece.

Etymology

Derived from the Italian word 'clarinetto', which is a diminutive form of 'chiaro', meaning 'clear'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

playing second clarinet:
Referring to a musician who plays a supportive or background role in an ensemble.
clarinet choir:
An ensemble consisting solely of clarinets.
to take up the clarinet:
To start learning or playing the clarinet.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

Playing the clarinet enthusiastically.
He was really clarinetting it up at the jazz club last night.
A term for someone who plays the clarinet well.
She's the clarinet whiz in our music group.