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Trumpet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trumpet

[ˈtrʌmpɪt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A brass musical instrument with a flared bell and a bright, penetrating tone. The trumpet is commonly used in jazz, classical, and marching band music.

Synonyms

bugle, cornet, horn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trumpet

The trumpet is commonly used in classical music, jazz, and orchestras. It is known for its bright, powerful sound and is often used for fanfares and solos.

  • The trumpeter played a brilliant solo during the jazz concert
  • The orchestra opened with a trumpet fanfare
horn

The term 'horn' can refer to several brass instruments but is most commonly associated with the French horn. It is often used in classical music and is known for its rich, warm tone. The context determines which horn is meant, like car horn, which has a negative connotation of annoyance.

  • The symphony featured a beautiful horn solo
  • The hunter's horn echoed through the forest
  • The driver honked the horn in frustration
bugle

The bugle is often used in military contexts for signals and ceremonies. It has a simpler design compared to the trumpet and is usually associated with calls to action or honor.

  • The bugler sounded the reveille to wake the soldiers
  • The bugle call signaled the start of the ceremony
cornet

The cornet is similar to the trumpet but has a more mellow and softer tone. It is often used in brass bands and sometimes in orchestras.

  • He played a beautiful melody on the cornet
  • The brass band featured a talented cornet player

Examples of usage

  • He played a beautiful melody on the trumpet.
  • The sound of the trumpet filled the concert hall.
  • The trumpet section led the band in the parade.
Context #2 | Verb

make a loud sound

To produce a loud, clear, resonant sound, typically by blowing into a trumpet or similar instrument. It can also refer to making a loud noise or proclaiming something loudly and clearly.

Synonyms

blare, herald, proclaim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trumpet

Trumpet, as a musical instrument, is used to describe playing or the sound produced by the instrument.

  • He played a beautiful solo on his trumpet.
  • The sound of the trumpet echoed through the hall.
blare

Blare refers to a loud, harsh sound, typically used when talking about noise or music. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The car's horn blared loudly in the quiet neighborhood.
  • Music blared from the speakers, disturbing the entire block.
proclaim

Proclaim means to declare something emphatically and publicly, often used for formal or official statements.

  • He proclaimed his innocence during the trial.
  • The president proclaimed a state of emergency after the natural disaster.
herald

Herald is used to describe something that is a sign of things to come or to officially announce significant news or events.

  • The flowers blooming herald the arrival of spring.
  • The new policy was heralded as a major improvement for the company.

Examples of usage

  • The elephant trumpeted loudly in the zoo.
  • She trumpeted her achievements to the whole world.
  • The victory was trumpeted across the nation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In jazz music, the trumpet provides energy and excitement, often showcasing solo performances that highlight individual musicianship.
  • Trumpets are often associated with military bands, signaling commands and marking ceremonial events.
  • In some cultures, the trumpet is a symbol of triumph and celebration, commonly played during weddings, parades, and festive occasions.

Science

  • The sound produced by a trumpet is a result of lip vibration and the shape of the instrument, which amplifies and modifies the sound waves.
  • In acoustics, trumpets fall under brass instruments, known for their rich timbre and bright tone, created by the material and construction of the tube.
  • The valves of a trumpet change the pitch by altering the airflow length, enabling musicians to create different notes quickly.

History

  • The trumpet was used in ancient military contexts as a means of communication, helping to relay commands over long distances.
  • During the Renaissance, it evolved as a vital melody instrument, often featured in orchestras and ensembles across Europe.
  • Famous trumpet players like Louis Armstrong brought the instrument to a new level of popularity in the 20th century through jazz music.

Art and Literature

  • In visual arts, trumpets are often depicted in scenes of celebration or majesty, symbolizing clarity and boldness.
  • Literature frequently uses trumpets as metaphors for announcements or declarations, invoking feelings of grandeur and excitement.
  • Many famous operas incorporate trumpet solos to convey dramatic moments and enhance emotional depth in performances.

Origin of 'trumpet'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'trumpet' comes from the Latin word 'trompetta', which means a small trumpet or a horn.
  • Historically, the term has roots in the Old French word 'trompette', indicating a link to medieval music and ceremonies.
  • The instrument has been used for centuries, with early versions seen in ancient Egypt over 3000 years ago.

The word 'trumpet' originated from the Old French 'trompette', which came from the late Latin 'trompeta', a diminutive of 'trumpa', meaning 'trumpet'. The use of trumpets dates back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where they were used for military and ceremonial purposes. Over time, the trumpet evolved into the instrument we know today, with its distinctive shape and sound.

See also: trump.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,357, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.