orchestrate
Americanverb (used with or without object)
-
to compose or arrange (music) for performance by an orchestra.
-
to arrange or manipulate, especially by means of clever or thorough planning or maneuvering.
to orchestrate a profitable trade agreement.
verb
-
to score or arrange (a piece of music) for orchestra
-
to arrange, organize, or build up for special or maximum effect
Other Word Forms
- orchestrater noun
- orchestration noun
- orchestrator noun
- overorchestrate verb
- reorchestrate verb
- unorchestrated adjective
Etymology
Origin of orchestrate
First recorded in 1875–80; from French orchestr(er) (derivative of orchestre orchestra ) + -ate 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 embrace of many of these models inside a system that can help orchestrate their use is the preferred route from many of the vendors.
From Barron's • Mar. 27, 2026
These hubs help orchestrate activity across networks, selecting the right systems for the job.
From Science Daily • Mar. 3, 2026
She felt responsible for the patient’s future, so she made up a diagnosis to orchestrate an admission.
From Slate • Jan. 26, 2026
Meanwhile, the advent of mobile computing enabled investors to orchestrate one of history’s great land grabs and efficiently manage the far-flung properties.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 10, 2026
Jefferson would oversee and orchestrate this campaign and provide its rhetorical foundation, which enjoyed a privileged association with the spirit of ’76.
From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis
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.
