Synth: meaning, definitions and examples

🎹
Add to dictionary

synth

 

[ sɪnθ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

music production

A synth, short for synthesizer, is an electronic instrument that generates audio signals. It can mimic traditional musical instruments or create entirely new sounds through various forms of synthesis. Synths are widely used in many genres, including electronic and pop music.

Synonyms

electronic instrument, synthesizer.

Examples of usage

  • The band used a synth to create rich textures in their song.
  • He programmed the synth to mimic the sound of a violin.
  • Many electronic music producers rely heavily on their synths for unique sound design.

Etymology

The word 'synth' is a shortened form of 'synthesizer'. The term 'synthesizer' originated in the late 1950s and became popularized in the 1970s with the rise of electronic music. Early synthesizers were large, complicated machines that required extensive knowledge of electronics and music theory to operate. They were often used in experimental music and film scoring. With advancements in technology, synthesizers became more accessible and compact, leading to their widespread use in popular music. Today, the word 'synth' not only refers to hardware synthesizers but also to software versions that replicate these functionalities, making the creation of electronic music more approachable for novices and professionals alike.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,024 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.