Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large bassoon: The double bassoon is the largest and lowest-pitched instrument in the bassoon family, and by extension, the oboe family of double-reed woodwind instruments. It is also commonly known as the contrabassoon.

Usage and Examples

• Noun:
  • The orchestra's deep, rumbling sound was provided by the double bassoon.
  • He is a specialist who plays the double bassoon.
  • The part for double bassoon is written an octave higher than it sounds.

Advanced Usage

• "To play the double bassoon": To perform music using this specific instrument.
  • It takes significant lung capacity to play the double bassoon effectively.

Variants and Related Words

• Contrabassoon (n): This is the more precise, standard term for the same instrument. "Double bassoon" and "contrabassoon" are used interchangeably.
  • The contrabassoon solo was a highlight of the symphony.

Synonyms

• Contrabassoon: The direct synonym.
• Bass bassoon: A less common descriptive term.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "double bassoon" explicitly refers to the instrument's pitch, which sounds one octave lower than the standard bassoon (it is "doubled" down an octave). It is not typically used to refer to two bassoons played together.

Noun

1. the bassoon that is the largest instrument in the oboe family