Organ: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is broadly used to refer to a type of musical instrument, particularly those with keys and pipes. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, including churches, concerts, and music education.

• The organ in the cathedral filled the hall with resonant sound.
• She is learning to play the organ.

Refers to a specific type of organ that produces sound by driving pressurized air through pipes selected via a keyboard. Commonly found in churches and concert halls, and used to describe a traditional organ with pipes.

• The magnificent sound of the pipe organ filled the concert hall.
• Restoring the old pipe organ took several months.

Specifically refers to an organ that is used in a church for religious ceremonies and services. This is often a large and complex instrument usually found in Christian places of worship.

• The beautiful tones of the church organ accompanied the choir.
• The church organist played a moving piece during the service.

This is a general term for any instrument that has a keyboard, such as pianos, electronic keyboards, and organs. It is a neutral term that can be used in various musical contexts, including education and performance.

• She specializes in playing various keyboard instruments.
• The classroom had a piano and other keyboard instruments.

Used to refer to structures in an organism that have specific functions, especially in the context of anatomy, biology, and medicine.

• The liver is an essential organ for detoxifying the body.
• He was diagnosed with organ failure.

Less formal term often used in everyday conversation to refer to any part of the human or animal body.

• She injured a body part while playing soccer.
• He couldn’t move his arm, his favorite body part.

A more technical term that might be used in scientific texts or discussions, especially when referring to biology or systems theory.

• An organism component like the heart is crucial for blood circulation.
• Researchers studied various organism components to understand their interconnections.

Often used to emphasize the importance or critical nature of a body part or component within any system, not limited to biological contexts.

• The brain is a vital part of the nervous system.
• Trust is a vital part of any successful relationship.

Use 'organ' when referring to a specialized part of a system or entity that has a specific role or function, such as a part of a body or an organized institution.

• The heart is an essential organ in the human body.
• The committee serves as an important organ within the association.

Use 'association' when referring to a group of people with a common purpose or interest, often officially organized.

• She joined the local tennis association.
• The medical association held a conference on recent health advancements.

Use 'group' when talking about a collection of individuals or things gathered together, often informally or with a broad sense of purpose.

• She attends a study group every Saturday.
• A group of friends decided to go on a road trip.

Use 'body' when describing a large organized group, such as a legislative or governing group, or to refer to the physical form of a person or animal.

• The legislative body passed a new law yesterday.
• He takes good care of his body through exercise and nutrition.