hornpipe

[ hawrn-pahyp ]

noun

1. an English folk clarinet having one ox horn concealing the reed and another forming the bell.
2. a lively jiglike dance, originally to music played on a hornpipe, performed usually by one person, and traditionally a favorite of sailors.
3. a piece of music for or in the style of such a dance.

hornpipe

/ ˈhɔːnˌpaɪp /

noun

1. an obsolete reed instrument with a mouthpiece made of horn
2. an old British solo dance to a hornpipe accompaniment, traditionally performed by sailors
3. a piece of music for such a dance

Word History and Origins

Origin of hornpipe¹

1350–1400; Middle English. See horn, pipe ¹

Example Sentences

Few were the dances in which I did not take a part, sinking so low as occasionally to oblige with a hornpipe.

From Project Gutenberg

I am, sir, no prologue; But in plain terms must tell you we are provided Of a lusty hornpipe.

From Project Gutenberg

When Captain Scraggs had completed his hornpipe on his hat he threw an appealing glance at his new mate.

From Project Gutenberg

When, however, one of the stage sailors came on and volunteered to dance a hornpipe, his indignation knew no bounds.

From Project Gutenberg

“I told you, Bill, that hornpipe of yours would gain friends wherever you go,” said Jack.

From Project Gutenberg