synthesizer

[sin-thuh-sahy-zer]

noun

1. a person or thing that synthesizes.

2. any of various electronic, sometimes portable consoles or modules, usually computerized, for creating, modifying, and combining tones or reproducing the sounds of musical instruments by controlling voltage patterns, operated by means of keyboards, joysticks, sliders, or knobs.

synthesizer

/ ˈsɪnθɪˌsaɪzə /

noun

1. an electrophonic instrument, usually operated by means of a keyboard and pedals, in which sounds are produced by voltage-controlled oscillators, filters, and amplifiers, with an envelope generator module that controls attack, decay, sustain, and release

2. a person or thing that synthesizes

Word History and Origins

Origin of synthesizer¹

First recorded in 1865–70; 1905–10 synthesizer for def. 2; synthesize + -er ¹

Example Sentences

The British singer and his band trade instruments with a sense of ease — splitting their time among a cello, keyboards, synthesizers, a drum machine, electric and acoustic guitars.

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Berry uses a blend of instruments — including saxophones, synthesizers and sound bowls — to craft the otherworldly, moody score.

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In his work, unsettling synthesizer drones inspired by the Andrei Tarkovsky film “Stalker” might be found next to samples of fast-food advertisements from the ’80s, resulting in pieces whose theoretical bent is balanced by musicality.

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Inside, he’s in the company of his drum machine, a turntable, synthesizers and his vinyl collection.

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She’s known for somber songs, yet this one was almost peppy, with plush synthesizers and promises of eternal devotion.

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