alphorn

/ ˈælpˌhɔːn /

noun

1. music a wind instrument used in the Swiss Alps, consisting of a very long tube of wood or bark with a cornet-like mouthpiece

Word History and Origins

Origin of alphorn¹

C19: from German Alpenhorn Alps horn

Example Sentences

And ahead, you may hear the long legato tones of an alphorn announcing that a helicopter-stocked mountain hut is open … and the coffee schnapps is on.

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The traditional instruments, alphorn in German or cor des Alpes in French, look like supersized smoking pipes.

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Switzerland even has a alphorn academy, a 20-year-old Montreux-based group that seeks to promote the instrument at home and around the world.

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Head to the balcony of the charming Enzian Inn for an alphorn performance by the inn’s owner or his son.

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How many opportunities do you have to experience an alphorn serenade?

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