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Etymology
Origin of orchestral
First recorded in 1805–15; orchestr(a) + -al 1
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The orchestra is huge, the musical invention, irresistible, and the sheer scale of orchestral writing is downright heroic.
From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026
The orchestral sound comes out of a hidden pit as though from the ether.
From Los Angeles Times • May 28, 2026
Beyond that, the invaluable learning he so selflessly offered countless young artists at New World will ensure that his faith in orchestral music’s redeeming powers echoes for decades to come.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 23, 2026
Last year's concert also saw the orchestral debut of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody - including a special appearance by two of the band's surviving members, Brian May and Roger Taylor.
From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026
Though never accorded any official title, Handel contributed grand anthems and orchestral suites for the Hanover Georges, from the Water Music to the Music for the Royal Fireworks, for the rest of his life.
From "The Story of Music" by Howard Goodall
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.