orchestrate

American  

[awr-kuh-streyt] / ˈɔr kəˌstreɪt /

verb (used with or without object)

orchestrated, orchestrating

1. to compose or arrange (music) for performance by an orchestra.

2. to arrange or manipulate, especially by means of clever or thorough planning or maneuvering.

   to orchestrate a profitable trade agreement.

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orchestrate British  

/ ˈɔːkɪˌstreɪt /

verb

1. to score or arrange (a piece of music) for orchestra

2. to arrange, organize, or build up for special or maximum effect

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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

But in recent years, the group’s efforts have expanded, aiming not only to win school board elections but to orchestrate legislative change and drive voter turnout in state and national elections.

From Salon

Taiwan accused the Chinese military’s “Information Support Force” of orchestrating the campaign.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Bryce is always going to do something interesting in any setting,” said Aaron, who recently asked him to orchestrate a song for Florence + the Machine.

From Los Angeles Times

This evolution will also create new jobs focused on orchestrating and managing AI systems.

From MarketWatch

Elizabeth Parmelee, a scholar of democracy and civic education at Metropolitan State University of Denver, explained how Colorado orchestrates its elections, which are conducted by mail, but without postmarks.

From Salon

Related Words

• arrange
• coordinate
• manage
• set up