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Sax Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sax

[sæks ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

The saxophone, commonly referred to as 'sax', is a brass instrument that is a member of the woodwind family. It is made of brass and is played with a single-reed mouthpiece, similar to that of the clarinet. Developed in the early 1840s by Adolphe Sax, the saxophone is widely used in various music genres, including jazz, classical, and military bands. It comes in several sizes, including soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone, each offering a unique sound and tonal quality.

Synonyms

reed instrument, saxophone.

Examples of usage

  • He played a beautiful solo on his alto sax.
  • The jazz band featured a talented saxophonist.
  • She learned to play the tenor sax in high school.
  • The sax adds a rich, mellow tone to the music.
  • A marching band typically includes saxophones among its woodwinds.

Translations

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Origin of 'sax'

The saxophone was invented by Adolphe Sax, a Belgian instrument maker, in the early 1840s. Sax's goal was to create an instrument that combined the power of brass instruments with the agility of woodwinds. The first saxophones were patented in 1846 and quickly gained popularity in military bands and orchestras. The saxophone's sound is produced by a vibrating reed that is attached to a mouthpiece, allowing for expressive play. Over time, the instrument evolved and established a significant place in jazz music. Legendary musicians like John Coltrane and Charlie Parker helped to solidify the saxophone's status in popular music throughout the 20th century. Today, it remains a crucial instrument in jazz, pop, and classical music.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,167, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.