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 eldest of eight children, James Gene Barge was born and raised in Norfolk, Virginia, and dreamed of professional football before playing clarinet with his high school marching band inspired him to try music. —Hillel Italie, Chicago Tribune, 5 Feb. 2025

His father, Fred James Hudson, was a farm inspector, who played drums, C melody saxophone, clarinet, flute and piano. —Peter Applebome, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2025

Today, many listeners can instantly recognize Rhapsody in Blue from its opening clarinet solo. —Ellen Wexler, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 Dec. 2024

Extended techniques, such as pushing water through the mouthpiece of a clarinet, helped create the organic and layered sound. —Spin Team, SPIN, 28 Nov. 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