Woodwinds refer to musical instruments that produce sound by the player blowing air through a reed or across an opening. Some of the common woodwinds include the flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, and saxophone. The term "woodwind" originated from the materials used to make some of these instruments, especially wood. However, not all woodwinds are made from wood. Plastic, metal, and ivory are also common materials used in woodwind instruments. Synonyms for woodwinds include wind instruments, reed instruments, and aerophones. All these terms describe musical instruments that produce sound through the player's manipulation of air flow. Whether made of wood or not, woodwinds remain a crucial component of many music genres.