clarinet

noun

clar·​i·​net ˌkler-ə-ˈnet 

ˌkla-rə-;

ˈkler-ə-nət,

ˈkla-rə-

: a single-reed woodwind instrument having a cylindrical tube with a moderately flared bell and a usual range from D below middle C upward for 3¹/₂ octaves

clarinetist noun

or clarinettist

ˌkler-ə-ˈne-tist 

ˌkla-rə-

Illustration of clarinet

Examples of clarinet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Colombian singer-songwriter began his music journey in Medellín, learning the clarinet before focusing on singing. —Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 10 Oct. 2024

Composers Josh Schmidt and Marius de Vries set the tone with a springy overture awash with strings and clarinets, and the rest of the score holds fast to that sense of denial. —David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 31 Aug. 2024

After being named principal clarinet of the New York Philharmonic, for example, Stephen Williamson joined that orchestra for its 2013/14 season before returning to the CSO. —Hannah Edgar, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2024

Maryland Winds musicians, who play bassoon, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, piano, harp and more, will regularly visit Posner’s classes to work with students. —Lizzy Alspach, Baltimore Sun, 6 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French clarinette, probably ultimately from Medieval Latin clarion-, clario

First Known Use

1733, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

clarinet

noun

clar·​i·​net ˌklar-ə-ˈnet 

ˈklar-ə-nət

: a woodwind musical instrument in the shape of a cylindrical tube having a single-reed mouthpiece

clarinetist noun

or clarinettist

ˌklar-ə-ˈnet-əst