A fanfare is a short, loud, triumphant burst of music, usually played by trumpets or other brass instruments. You've probably heard fanfare at the Olympics when athletes receive their medals, or at the beginning of an exciting movie when the studio logo appears on screen. That bold, attention-grabbing sound announces that something important is about to happen.

The word comes from the days when trumpeters would sound a dramatic call to announce the arrival of royalty or signal the start of a royal ceremony. Today, we still use actual fanfare for special occasions: a graduating class might enter to fanfare, or a championship team might be welcomed home with fanfare from a marching band.

People also use fanfare to describe any showy, elaborate celebration or announcement. When a new product launches with great fanfare, the company creates excitement with advertisements, events, and media attention. Sometimes people do things without fanfare, meaning quietly and modestly, with no fuss or special attention. A scientist might publish groundbreaking research without fanfare, simply sharing the discovery without seeking publicity or celebration.