sinfonietta

[ sin-fuhn-yet-uh, -fohn- ]

noun

1. a short symphony.
2. a small symphony orchestra, often composed solely of stringed instruments.
3. a symphony for fewer than the usual number of instruments.

sinfonietta

/ ˌsɪnfənˈjɛtə; -fəʊn- /

noun

1. a short or light symphony
2. capital when part of name a small symphony orchestra

Word History and Origins

Origin of sinfonietta¹

1920–25; < Italian; diminutive of sinfonia sinfonia

Word History and Origins

Origin of sinfonietta¹

Italian: a little symphony, from sinfonia

Example Sentences

In portions of the "Sinfonietta," five rhythms are to be found warring against each other.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• band
• ensemble