Jew's harp

American  

Or Jews' harp

noun

1. (sometimes lowercase) a small, simple musical instrument consisting of a lyre-shaped metal frame containing a metal tongue, which is plucked while the frame is held in the teeth, the vibrations causing twanging tones.

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jew's-harp British  

noun

1. a musical instrument consisting of a small lyre-shaped metal frame held between the teeth, with a steel tongue plucked with the finger. Changes in pitch are produced by varying the size of the mouth cavities

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Etymology

Origin of Jew's harp

First recorded in 1585–95; perhaps jocular; earlier called Jew's trump

Example Sentences

It sounds something like a Jew’s harp, but much louder.

From Slate • Sep. 30, 2018

"I'm a great hand at the Jew's harp myself!…"

From The Foolish Lovers by Ervine, St. John G. (St. John Greer)

The Jew’s harp was played successfully, and Saul was often relieved from the evil spirit by David’s ministrations.

From Theological Essays by Bradlaugh, Charles

In giving some account of the Jew's harp, considered as a medium for musical sounds, we shall only present the result of his discoveries.

From The Mirror of Literature, Amusement, and Instruction Volume 10, No. 269, August 18, 1827 by Various

Jeremy at one end of the circle sat strumming fitfully upon his latest instrument, violin or Jew's harp, his half-savage music breaking in upon Honorine's ceaseless chatter without prelude or apology.

From Deep Moat Grange by Crockett, S. R. (Samuel Rutherford)