clavier

[ kluh-veer, klav-ee-er, kley-vee- ]

noun

1. the keyboard of a musical instrument.
2. Also kla·vier. any musical instrument having a keyboard, especially a stringed keyboard instrument, as a harpsichord, clavichord, or piano.

clavier

/ ˈklævɪə; kləˈvɪə /

noun

1. 1. any keyboard instrument
   2. the keyboard itself

Other Words From

• cla·vier·ist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clavier¹

First recorded in 1700–10, and in 1835–45 clavier fordef 2; from French: literally, “keyboard,” in Old French “keyholder,” equivalent to Latin clāvi(s) “key” + -ier noun suffix; clavier def 2 is from German Klavier, in turn from French as above -ier ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of clavier¹

C18: from French: keyboard, from Old French (in the sense: key bearer), from Latin clāvis key

Example Sentences

Frau Court Councillor von Belzer plays the clavier and sings.

From Project Gutenberg

The Countess von Belderbusch, wife of a nephew of the minister, whose name will come up again, plays skilfully upon the clavier.

From Project Gutenberg

Captain Dantoine, a passionate admirer and knower of music; plays the violin and the clavier a little.

From Project Gutenberg

All of the sons of Herr v. Mastiaux play the clavier well, as you already know from earlier letters of mine.

From Project Gutenberg

The former will have the honor to contribute various beautiful arias, the latter various clavier concertos and trios.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• grand piano
• instrument
• keyboard