Philharmonics

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. An orchestra dedicated to the performance of symphonic music, often associated with large, complex works from various composers
2. A musical organization focused on the interpretation of classical music, typically featuring a wide-ranging repertoire
3. A concert association that provides orchestral performances and engages in music education, fostering appreciation for symphonic arts

Etymology: The plural "philharmonics" is simply the plural of "philharmonic," so the story lies in the singular. That word came into English from French "philharmonique," which in turn came from Italian "filarmonico," a term formed from Greek roots meaning a lover of harmony or music. The pairing is a pattern: "phil-" from Greek "philos," meaning loving or fond of, joined to "harmonic," which relates to harmony in music. Italian "filarmonico" was used for music societies and their members, and the French and English forms followed that sense. In English, "philharmonic" became attached to organisations devoted to orchestral music, and the plural "philharmonics" refers to such orchestras collectively or to several of them.