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Glite Dictionary
C flute

C flute

4.0
A common concert wind instrument played by blowing across a hole tuned to C and used in orchestras
  • noun
  • /siː fluːt/
  • Specialized
translation icon : flauta C
  • Most beginners start lessons on the C flute before trying other types like the piccolo or alto flute.

Examples

  • The symphony's first movement featured a beautiful C flute solo.

  • She played the C flute in the school orchestra throughout her teenage years.

  • The C flute is a versatile instrument.

  • Many orchestras feature the C flute prominently.

  • Most beginners start lessons on the C flute before trying other types like the piccolo or alto flute.

  • She played the C flute in the school orchestra throughout her teenage years.

  • The symphony's first movement featured a beautiful C flute solo.

Synonyms

flute
vsC flute
75 1.5

A musical instrument you blow into to make high clear sounds

is the specific standard orchestral model pitched in C used in bands
Western concert flute
vsC flute
  • Specialized
4.7

A metal or wooden instrument held sideways and played by blowing across a hole used in orchestras and bands

is the standard version pitched in C for orchestras and bands
transverse flute
vsC flute
5.1

A wind instrument held horizontally that you play by blowing across a hole

is the standard pitched in C rather than only the playing position
Boehm flute
vsC flute
  • Specialized
7.7

A modern metal flute with keys designed by Theobald Boehm played by blowing across a side hole

is the standard orchestral instrument defined by its pitch in C

Surface Forms

C flute singular
C flutes plural

Morphology

C + flute

The meaning 'a flute pitched in C' is directly and compositionally derived from 'C' (the musical pitch/key) plus 'flute' (the instrument). This key-letter + instrument pattern is a standard, cross-linguistically common construction in musical contexts, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents (in particular 'C' as a pitch) will readily understand the MWE.

Etymology

C flute is named for how it is tuned: the letter C means the instrument plays in the 'key of C', and flute is the wind instrument used in orchestras and bands. So, C flute simply means the standard concert flute musicians use.