clavichord

[ klav-i-kawrd ]

/ ˈklæv ɪˌkɔrd /

SEE MORE SYNONYMS FOR clavichord ON THESAURUS.COM

noun

an early keyboard instrument producing a soft sound by means of metal blades attached to the inner ends of the keys gently striking the strings.

Nearby words

clavacin, clavate, clave, claver, clavicembalo, clavichord, clavicle, clavicorn, clavicotomy, clavicytherium, clavier

Origin of clavichord

1425–75; late Middle English < Medieval Latin clāvichordium, equivalent to Latin clāvi(s) key + chord(a) chord² + -ium -ium

Related forms

clav·i·chord·ist, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Examples from the Web for clavichord

The invention which overthrew the clavichord and the harpsichord and brought into existence the piano was the hammer action.
How Music Developed|W. J. Henderson
The clavichord retained the box shape of its prototype, the monochord.
How to Appreciate Music|Gustav Kobb
Bach was acquainted with the harpsichord, though he always preferred the clavichord.
How Music Developed|W. J. Henderson
Everyone acquainted with the character of the clavichord will probably admit that Luther's advice was judicious.
Musical Myths and Facts, Volume II (of 2)|Carl Engel

Caroline drifted finally into the chamber back of the dining room, and they could hear the tenuous vibrations of the clavichord.
The Three Black Pennys|Joseph Hergesheimer

British Dictionary definitions for clavichord

clavichord

/ (ˈklævɪˌkɔːd) /

noun

a keyboard instrument consisting of a number of thin wire strings struck from below by brass tangents. The instrument is noted for its delicate tones, since the tangents do not rebound from the string until the key is released

Derived Forms

clavichordist, noun

Word Origin for clavichord

C15: from Medieval Latin clāvichordium, from Latin clāvis key + chorda string, chord 1

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012