orchestrate

[ awr-kuh-streyt ]

verb (used with or without object)

, or·ches·trat·ed, or·ches·trat·ing.

1. to compose or arrange (music) for performance by an orchestra.
2. to arrange or manipulate, especially by means of clever or thorough planning or maneuvering:

   to orchestrate a profitable trade agreement.

orchestrate

/ ˈɔːkɪˌstreɪt /

verb

1. to score or arrange (a piece of music) for orchestra
2. to arrange, organize, or build up for special or maximum effect

Derived Forms

• ˈorchesˌtrator, noun
• ˌorchesˈtration, noun

Other Words From

• or·ches·tra·tion [awr-k, uh, -, strey, -sh, uh, n] noun
• or·ches·tra·tor or·ches·trat·er noun
• o·ver·or·ches·trate verb overorchestrated overorchestrating
• re·or·ches·trate verb reorchestrated reorchestrating
• un·or·ches·trat·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of orchestrate¹

First recorded in 1875–80; from French orchestr(er) (derivative of orchestre orchestra ) + -ate ¹

Example Sentences

The Brazilian government believes the January 2023 riots were part of a coup attempt orchestrated by Bolsonaro following his defeat in a tightly contested presidential election the previous October.

From BBC

Gaetz, a Florida congressman who resigned from the House hours after Trump announced that he would nominate him to run the Justice Department, orchestrated McCarthy’s ouster as speaker last year.

From Los Angeles Times

Scott orchestrates something like this in the movie, pitting the crews of two ships, one manned by Roman soldiers, the other by gladiators, against each other.

From Los Angeles Times

But instead, he orchestrates another punishment, delivering her to the cops and sending her back to Arkham, where she suffered for years after being accused of a series of murders she didn’t commit.

From Los Angeles Times

Romero, who hosted neighborhood meetings, recruited local clergy to the cause, and helped park vendors threatened by gang members, orchestrated weekend festivals that included singers, dancers and puppet masters.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• arrange
• coordinate
• manage
• set up