uilleann pipes

American  

[ahy-luhn] / ˈaɪ lən /

Or uillean pipes

plural noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of uilleann pipes

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.

From BBC

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.

From BBC

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.

From BBC

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

From New York Times

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.

From New York Times