noun
Uncommon
ensemble
on-SOM-bl
Ensemble (noun) means a coordinated group of things that work together as a whole, such as a matching outfit. Example: “She wore a stylish ensemble of a navy blazer and matching trousers.”
noun
1
A coordinated group of things that work together as a whole, such as a matching outfit.
"She wore a stylish ensemble of a navy blazer and matching trousers."
"For the wedding she chose a matching ensemble of a green dress and jacket."
"His winter ensemble included a thick scarf, wool hat and gloves in the same colour."
2
A group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together.
"The jazz ensemble played three sets at the festival."
"The film's ensemble cast made every scene feel alive."
"The school's string ensemble rehearses every Tuesday after lessons finish."
How to use ensemble
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA set of things, or a group of performers, that fit together as one whole.
Common pairings
ensemble cast
jazz ensemble
a matching ensemble
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Word forms
- Plural
- ensembles
- Third person singular
- ensembles
- Past tense
- ensembled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She wore a stylish _____ of a navy blazer and matching trousers.
Etymology
Borrowed from French ensemble, meaning "together."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for ensemble
See all rhymes for ensemble →Frequently asked questions
What does “ensemble” mean?
The word “ensemble” means a coordinated group of things that work together as a whole, such as a matching outfit. In plain terms, a set of things, or a group of performers, that fit together as one whole.
How do you pronounce “ensemble”?
“Ensemble” is pronounced on-SOM-bl (/ˌɑnˈsɑm.bəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “ensemble” in a sentence?
Here is “ensemble” used in a sentence: “She wore a stylish ensemble of a navy blazer and matching trousers.”
What part of speech is “ensemble”?
“Ensemble” is a noun.
Where does the word “ensemble” come from?
The word “ensemble” comes from French. Borrowed from French ensemble, meaning "together.".
Is “ensemble” a common word?
“Ensemble” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “ensemble” have?
“Ensemble” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a coordinated group of things that work together as a whole, such as a matching outfit.
What is the difference between an ensemble and a band?
Ensemble is a broader term for any coordinated group of musicians, actors, or dancers performing together, including orchestras, choirs, and theater casts. Band typically refers more specifically to a group of musicians, often in popular or rock music, making ensemble the more general and often more formal term.
What does ensemble mean when referring to clothing?
When referring to clothing, an ensemble means a coordinated outfit made up of pieces designed or chosen to work together as a matching whole, such as a jacket, trousers, and accessories styled as one look.
What is an ensemble cast in film or theater?
An ensemble cast refers to a group of actors given roughly equal importance in a production, rather than the story centering on a single lead performer. This use reflects the general sense of ensemble as a group working together as a coordinated whole.
