saxophone

American  

[sak-suh-fohn] / ˈsæk səˌfoʊn /

noun

1. a musical wind instrument consisting of a conical, usually brass tube with keys or valves and a mouthpiece with one reed.

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saxophone British  

/ ˈsæksəˌfəʊn, sækˈsɒfənɪst, ˌsæksəˈfɒnɪk /

noun

1. Often shortened to: sax.  a keyed wind instrument of mellow tone colour, used mainly in jazz and dance music. It is made in various sizes, has a conical bore, and a single reed

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saxophone Cultural  

1. A wind instrument classified as a woodwind because it is played with a reed, although it is usually made of metal. Saxophones appear mainly in jazz, dance, and military bands. They are made in several ranges, from soprano to bass.

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Other Word Forms

• saxophonic adjective
• saxophonist noun

Etymology

Origin of saxophone

1850–55; Sax ( saxhorn ) + -o- + -phone

Example Sentences

Army during the Vietnam War, was a docent for the Los Angeles Conservancy and played the saxophone.

From Los Angeles Times

“You can play flute, if you want,” Cameron continued, “but I see you as a saxophone.”

From Washington Post

The performance boasted various instruments, including saxophone, guitar, trombone, percussion and drums.

From Reuters

A large group of students, some playing saxophones, tubas and drums, paced outside the meeting protesting potential cuts to the band program.

From Seattle Times

Eighth grader Elijah King, who plays the saxophone at Washington Middle, said jazz band is what he looks forward to at school.

From Seattle Times