saxophone

This page is about the eponym saxophone

Meaning

a brass musical instrument of the woodwind family, often used in classical music and jazz

For example

  • We need a saxophone player to join our jazz group.

  • Our concert band features alto and tenor saxophones.

Note:
A saxophone is commonly called a sax for short. A person who plays this instrument may be called a sax player.

Origin: Belgian instrument maker Adolphe Sax (1814-1894) invented the saxophone instrument in 1840. He made several different sizes and held a patent for 15 years. Previously, he had made improvements on the clarinet.

Quick Quiz

What is a saxophone usually made of?

a. brass

b. plastic

c. glass
a) brass b) plastic c) glass

Contributor: Tara Benwell