Piccolo

/ˈpɪk.ə.loʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A small, high-pitched woodwind instrument like a flute, usually smaller than a standard flute.

The orchestra added a delightful touch of color with the sound of the piccolo.

The part written for the piccolo in musical compositions.

The composer highlighted the piccolo in the concerto to create a playful melody.

adjective

Small or little in size.

She brought a piccolo version of the book for her younger sibling.

In music, indicating a performance on a smaller instrument.

They played a piccolo arrangement of the symphony for a more intimate concert.

Italian, meaning 'small' or 'little'

piccolo player

A musician who plays the piccolo.

piccolo section

The group of musicians in an orchestra playing the piccolo.

play the piccolo

To perform music on the piccolo.

flute

A woodwind instrument that is played by blowing air across an opening.

woodwind

A family of musical instruments that produce sound when air is blown into or across them.

A term used in music to refer humorously to any small or high-pitched sound.

That sound is so piccolo, it totally reminds me of a bird chirping.

In informal contexts, referring to a young or small person with high energy.

He's like a piccolo, always buzzing around and full of life.