trumpet
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for trumpet, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A brass musical instrument played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, typically with valves to change pitch.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use trumpet
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French trompette, a diminutive of trompe, "horn," ultimately from a Frankish word imitating the instrument's sound — related to "drum."
Full origin of trumpet →Frequently asked questions
What does “trumpet” mean?
The word “trumpet” means a brass musical instrument played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, typically with valves to change pitch. In plain terms, the brass instrument, an elephant's loud cry, or (as a verb) to loudly announce something.
How do you pronounce “trumpet”?
“Trumpet” is pronounced TRUHM-piht (/ˈtɹʌmpɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “trumpet” in a sentence?
Here is “trumpet” used in a sentence: “She practiced trumpet scales every evening after school.”
What part of speech is “trumpet”?
Depending on how it is used, “trumpet” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “trumpet” come from?
The word “trumpet” comes from Old French. From Old French trompette, a diminutive of trompe, "horn," ultimately from a Frankish word imitating the instrument's sound — related to "drum.".
Is “trumpet” a common word?
“Trumpet” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “trumpet” have?
“Trumpet” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a brass musical instrument played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, typically with valves to change pitch.
What is the difference between a trumpet and a cornet?
A trumpet is a brass instrument played by buzzing the lips into a mouthpiece, typically with valves to change pitch, and it generally has a longer, more cylindrical bore that gives it a brighter, more piercing tone. A cornet is similar in playing technique but has a more conical bore, producing a mellower, rounder sound.
What does it mean to trumpet something?
To trumpet something means to announce or praise it loudly and publicly, drawing as much attention to it as possible. The word is often used when someone boasts about an achievement or makes sure news is widely known.
Why is an elephant's cry called a trumpet?
An elephant's loud, blaring cry is called a trumpet because it resembles the sharp, resonant sound of the brass instrument. This use of trumpet as a noun describes that distinctive vocalisation specifically.