Meaning & Definition of word "Quintet"

Quintet

/kwɪnˈtɛt/

noun:

  • 1. A group of five people or things.
    • Example: The jazz quintet played a mesmerizing set at the local club.
  • 2. A musical composition for five instruments or voices.
    • Example: Beethoven's Quintet for Piano and Winds is a masterpiece of chamber music.
  • 3. A group of five musicians who perform together.
    • Example: The string quintet consisted of two violins, a viola, a cello, and a double bass.

Etymology

From the Italian 'quintetto', which comes from 'quinto', meaning 'fifth'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

string quintet:

A musical ensemble consisting of two violins, a viola, and two cellos.

brass quintet:

A group of five brass musicians, often including trumpets, horns, and a tuba.

piano quintet:

A musical composition for piano and four other instruments.

Related Words

quartet:

A group of four musicians or singers.

sextet:

A group of six musicians or singers.

octet:

A group of eight musicians or singers.

Slang Meanings of quintet

Meaning: A small group of friends or peers.

Example Sentence: We formed a quintet to tackle the project together.