ˈsɪmfənɪ n. (pl. -ies) 1 an
elaborate composition usu.
for full
orchestra,
and in
several movements
with one or
more in
sonata form. 2 an
interlude for orchestra
alone in a large-scale
vocal work. 3 = symphony orchestra. øsymphony orchestra a
large orchestra
suitable for playing symphonies etc. [ME, =
harmony of
sound, f. OF symphonie f. L symphonia f. Gk sumphonia (as
SYN-, phonos f. phone sound)]