There are several synonyms that can be used to refer to the musical instrument known as the "alto saxophone". One such synonym is simply "alto sax", which is a commonly used shorthand term for the instrument. Another synonym is "Eb saxophone", which refers to the instrument's key of E♭. The alto saxophone is also sometimes called a "straight saxophone", due to its straight shape (as opposed to the curved shape of a tenor or baritone saxophone). Some jazz musicians may refer to it as the "bebop sax", as it was a popular instrument in the bebop style of jazz. Regardless of the synonym used, the alto saxophone remains a beloved and iconic instrument in the world of music.