symphonic

[ sim-fon-ik ]

adjective

1. Music. of, for, pertaining to, or having the character of a symphony or symphony orchestra.
2. of or relating to symphony or harmony of sounds.
3. characterized by similarity of sound, as words.

Other Words From

• sym·phoni·cal·ly adverb
• nonsym·phonic adjective
• nonsym·phoni·cal·ly adverb
• presym·phonic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of symphonic¹

First recorded in 1855–60; symphon(y) + -ic

Example Sentences

Despite flirting with another devastating blown lead, Kyle Shanahan remains a symphonic play-caller.

From Washington Post

Early in his career, he focused on the symphonic repertoire, developing a particular expertise in the works of Ludwig van Beethoven, Johannes Brahms, Anton Bruckner, Gustav Mahler and, later, Dmitri Shostakovich.

From Washington Post

Some of his writings have been adapted for a symphonic work by British composer Jonathan Harvey.

From Washington Post

We’re not afraid to make choices that look different from a traditional symphonic chorus.

From Washington Blade

That’s how long it takes for the symphonic Marvel Studios intro to reel you in.

From Washington Post

He is known to be difficult, because of his love of the Latinate, and his non-linear, digressive, even symphonic, narrative style.

From The Daily Beast

But Samuragochi received sole credit, and such an arrangement would be a complete no-no in the symphonic realm.

From The Daily Beast

“On Mr. Fox, at first there was talk about using a symphonic orchestra,” he continues.

From The Daily Beast

In the 19th century, Franz Liszt set about translating some of the greatest works of literature into symphonic tone poems.

From The Daily Beast

When and how could he become acquainted with the symphonic masterpieces of the great German composers?

From Project Gutenberg

During his student years, Orpheus was the only one of Liszts symphonic poems which attracted him.

From Project Gutenberg

On this same occasion Tchaikovsky begged Vladimir Stassov to suggest a subject for a symphonic fantasia.

From Project Gutenberg

Tchaikovskys creative talents, which are occasionally apparent in his symphonic works, are completely lacking in The Oprichnik.

From Project Gutenberg

I have only just finished the composition of a new work, the symphonic fantasia, Francesca da Rimini.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• harmonic
• lyrical