Calliope: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ถ
calliope
[ kรฆหlaษช.oส.pi ]
musical instrument
A calliope is a musical instrument that produces sound by sending steam or compressed air through large whistles. It is often associated with circuses and fairs, providing a distinctive and powerful sound that can be heard from a distance. The calliope typically plays melodies that are pre-programmed, and it was particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It has a charming yet somewhat haunting quality, often evoking nostalgia. Calliopes are sometimes referred to as 'steam pianos' due to their method of sound production.
Synonyms
steam organ, steam piano
Examples of usage
- The calliope echoed through the carnival grounds.
- She played the calliope, filling the air with joyful tunes.
- The sound of the calliope reminded him of his childhood trips to the circus.
Translations
Translations of the word "calliope" in other languages:
๐ต๐น calรญope
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเคพเคฒเคฟเคฏเฅเคช
๐ฉ๐ช Kalliope
๐ฎ๐ฉ Calliope
๐บ๐ฆ ะะฐะปัะพะฟะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ Kalliope
๐ฏ๐ต ใซใชใชใ
๐ซ๐ท Calliope
๐ช๐ธ Calรญope
๐น๐ท Kalliope
๐ฐ๐ท ์นผ๋ฆฌ์คํ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงูููุจ
๐จ๐ฟ Kalliope
๐ธ๐ฐ Kalliope
๐จ๐ณ ๅกๅฉไฟ็
๐ธ๐ฎ Kalliope
๐ฎ๐ธ Kallรญope
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะะฐะปะปัะพะฟะฐ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ Kalliope
๐ฒ๐ฝ Calรญope
Etymology
The word 'calliope' comes from the Greek 'Kalliope', which means 'beautiful voice'. In Greek mythology, Calliope is one of the Muses, specifically the Muse of epic poetry, and is often depicted as the wisest and eloquent of the Muses. The use of the name for the musical instrument is fitting, as the calliope produces sound in a loud and melodious manner, reminiscent of the beauty associated with poetry. The calliope was invented in the early 19th century and quickly became a popular attraction at fairs and circuses. Its ability to produce music over long distances contributed to its allure, as it could be heard from far away, drawing crowds to the events where it was featured. Initially powered by steam, the calliope's design evolved over time, but its nostalgic charm and connection to entertainment remain enduring.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranking #38,162, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.
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