bagpipe

American  

[bag-pahyp] / ˈbægˌpaɪp /

noun

1. Often bagpipes. a reed instrument consisting of a melody pipe and one or more accompanying drone pipes protruding from a windbag into which the air is blown by the mouth or a bellows.

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verb (used with object)

bagpiped, bagpiping

1. Nautical. to back (a fore-and-aft sail) by hauling the sheet to windward.

bagpipe British  

/ ˈbæɡˌpaɪp /

noun

1. (modifier) of or relating to the bagpipes

   a bagpipe maker

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Other Word Forms

• bagpiper noun

Etymology

Origin of bagpipe

First recorded in 1300–50, bagpipe is from the Middle English word baggepipe. See bag, pipe ¹

Explanation

A bagpipe is a musical instrument that's played by blowing into a bag through a pipe. The bagpipes are commonly associated with Scotland. It's more common to use the plural form — bagpipes — or even "the pipes" or "a set of pipes." The music produced by bagpipes is distinctive, with a constant harmonizing sound being produced by the drone pipe, and no rests between notes. The bagpipe player squeezes the bag with his arm as he blows a pipe called a chanter, and in formal situations he might wear a kilt and knee socks.

Example Sentences

In addition to the more traditional Chinese performances, including lion and dragon dancers, this year’s parade featured marching bands, ballet folklórico dancers and a bagpipe troupe, highlighting the event’s theme: “Unity in the Community.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 22, 2026

Other shows retooled their broadcasts to share fond memories of Kirk, between visual tiles crafted in tribute to his life and accompanying bursts of bagpipe processions.

From Slate • Sep. 22, 2025

More than a hundred spectators watched from a hill above the garden as a bagpipe played “Amazing Grace” at the end.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 4, 2024

The parade showcased Gaelic Athletic Club members demonstrating their hurling skills, bagpipe players, antique fire trucks and lots of green items, including cotton candy, plaid hats and stuffed animals.

From New York Times • Mar. 17, 2024

It was in every report, as if Sasha had been on the way home from bagpipe practice.

From "The 57 Bus" by Dashka Slater