Orchestrate
/ˈɔːr.kɪ.streɪt/noun
To arrange, coordinate, or direct the elements of an event, activity, or musical work.
Did you know?In ancient Greek drama, the orchestra was the circular performance area where the chorus danced and sang, not primarily the musicians’ section.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ὀρχήστρα (orkhēstra)
“The dancing place in a theater, especially the area used by the chorus”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ὀρχέομαι (orkheomai)
“To dance”
17th Century
Italian
orchestra
“The area in a theater occupied by musicians”
18th Century
French
orchestre
“An ensemble of instrumental musicians”
19th Century
English
orchestrate
“To arrange music for an orchestra”
Modern English
English
orchestrate
“To coordinate or direct a complex event, plan, or operation”
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