uilleann pipes

Or uil·lean pipes

[ahy-luhn]

plural noun

1. Often uilleann pipe. Irish bagpipes held on the knee or under the arms with bellows operated by the elbow.

Word History and Origins

Origin of uilleann pipes¹

First recorded in 1875–80; from Irish píob uilleann “pipe of the elbow,” from Irish Gaelic píob “pipe” (ultimately from Vulgar Latin pipa) + uilleann, genitive singular of uillin “elbow,” akin to Latin ulna, Greek ōlénē, Old English eln, elnboga, elboga elbow ( def. )

Example Sentences

Chris has been playing the uilleann pipes for many years, and said he also enjoys playing the flute and tin-whistles.

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The uilleann pipes, also known as Union pipes or Irish pipes, have been played for centuries and are a beloved instrument in Irish traditional music.

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Chris said since the advert aired, he has received so many messages asking about the uilleann pipes and said he was delighted to help highlight the instrument.

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Her bandmate Ian Lynch, 42, a singer who plays contributes both uilleann pipes and tape loops, added a clarification.

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This allows Flaherty and Ahrens to customize song forms to suit each moment and explore genres that fit the milieu — cue the fiddle and uilleann pipes.

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