Trumpet
Pronunciation
- IPA: /ˈtɹʌmpɪt/
Origin
From Middle English trumpette, trompette ("trumpet") from Old French trompette ("trumpet"), diminutive of trompe ("horn, trump, trumpet"), from Frankish *trumpa, *trumba ("trumpet"). Akin to Old High German trumpa, trumba ("horn, trumpet"), Middle Dutch tromme ("drum"), Middle Low German trumme ("drum"). More at drum.
Full definition of trumpet
Noun
trumpet
(plural trumpets)- A musical instrument of the brass family, generally tuned to the key of B-flat.The royal herald sounded a trumpet to announce their arrival.
- In an orchestra or other musical group, a musician that plays the trumpet.The trumpets were assigned to stand at the rear of the orchestra pit.
- The cry of an elephant.The large bull gave a basso trumpet as he charged the hunters.
- (figurative) One who praises, or propagates praise, or is the instrument of propagating it.
- DrydenThat great politician was pleased to have the greatest wit of those times ... to be the trumpet of his praises.
- A funnel, or short flaring pipe, used as a guide or conductor, as for yarn in a knitting machine.
Synonyms
- (musical instrument) cornet
Derived terms
Verb
- (intransitive) To sound loudly, be amplifiedThe music trumpeted from the speakers, hurting my ears.
- (intransitive) To play the trumpet.Cedric made a living trumpeting for the change of passersby in the subway.
- (intransitive) Of an elephant, to make its cry.''The circus trainer cracked the whip, signaling the elephant to trumpet.
- (transitive) To proclaim loudly; to promote enthusiasticallyAndy trumpeted Jane's secret across the school, much to her embarrassment.
- Francis BaconThey did nothing but publish and trumpet all the reproaches they could devise against the Irish.