harpsichord

[ hahrp-si-kawrd ]

noun

1. a keyboard instrument, precursor of the piano, in which the strings are plucked by leather or quill points connected with the keys, in common use from the 16th to the 18th century, and revived in the 20th.

harpsichord

/ ˈhɑːpsɪˌkɔːd /

noun

1. a horizontally strung stringed keyboard instrument, triangular in shape, consisting usually of two manuals controlling various sets of strings plucked by pivoted plectrums mounted on jacks. Some harpsichords have a pedal keyboard and stops by which the tone colour may be varied

harpsichord

1. A stringed keyboard instrument much used in the baroque era in music. The keys of a harpsichord move small devices that pluck the strings; the strings are not struck with hammers, as in a piano . Thus, although harpsichords often look much like pianos, their characteristic tinkly sound is unlike that of the piano, and a harpsichordist cannot change the volume of the sound by striking the keys harder, as a pianist can.

Derived Forms

• ˈharpsiˌchordist, noun

Other Words From

• harpsi·chordist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of harpsichord¹

First recorded in 1605–15, harpsichord is from the New Latin word harpichordium (with intrusive -s- of obscure origin). See harp, -i-, chord ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of harpsichord¹

C17: from New Latin harpichordium, from Late Latin harpa harp + Latin chorda chord ¹

Example Sentences

Sitting up there at that little spindly-legged organ, he looked enormous, bigger than life, like a gorilla at a harpsichord.

From The Daily Beast

Near by was the harpsichord on which she was about to try it, when it seemed to her that a screen beside her trembled.

From Project Gutenberg

These were imported into England, and to John Haward is due the credit for the idea of pedals for the harpsichord.

From Project Gutenberg

Madam de Broglie complimented me upon my work, and going to her harpsichord proved to me she had already given it some attention.

From Project Gutenberg

I was transported with joy when I learned from him he could play an accompaniment on the harpsichord.

From Project Gutenberg

She possessed several agreeable talents, played the harpsichord, danced well, and wrote pleasing poetry.

From Project Gutenberg