organ grinder

noun

1. an itinerant street musician who earns a living by playing a hand organ or hurdy-gurdy.

organ-grinder

noun

1. a street musician playing a hand organ for money

Word History and Origins

Origin of organ grinder¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

"It's the organ grinder accent all right," Gatti said in a barely audible voice.

From Project Gutenberg

At thirteen, he spoke Italian so fluently that he caused a hand-organ grinder to throw a brick at him.

From Project Gutenberg

The organ grinder plays for the children and they dance on the sidewalks, singing and calling out in delight.

From Project Gutenberg

Her words floated down to the organ grinder, and at once he allowed the monkey more length of cord.

From Project Gutenberg

Polly obeyed, though slowly, because of her tears; but when she recognized the organ grinder curiosity hastened her steps.

From Project Gutenberg