Guitar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ธ
guitar
[ษกษชหtษหr ]
Definitions
musical instrument
A stringed musical instrument with a fretted fingerboard, typically six strings plucked or strummed with the fingers or a plectrum.
Synonyms
acoustic, electric, instrument.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| guitar |
General term for a stringed musical instrument with a body and neck, used in various music styles.
|
| instrument |
A broad term used to describe any device used to create music, including guitars. Preferred when discussing music in a general way or multiple types of instruments.
|
| acoustic |
Specifically refers to a guitar that produces sound acoustically without electronic amplification. Usually used in contexts related to folk, classical, or unplugged performances.
|
| electric |
Refers to a guitar that requires electronic amplification to produce sound. Commonly used in contexts related to rock, pop, and other modern music genres.
|
Examples of usage
- The guitarist played the guitar with passion.
- She practiced playing the guitar every day.
- The sound of the guitar filled the room.
informal
A person who is skilled in playing the guitar.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| guitar |
Use 'guitar' to refer specifically to the musical instrument itself.
|
| musician |
Use 'musician' to refer generally to someone who plays a musical instrument or is involved in music professionally.
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| player |
Use 'player' to refer to someone who plays an instrument or engages in an activity, often in a more casual or general sense. It can be used negatively to imply someone is not serious.
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| guitarist |
Use 'guitarist' to describe a person who plays the guitar.
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Examples of usage
- He is a talented guitar and singer.
- The guitarist performed a solo on stage.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the guitar is central to folk music, often bringing people together at social gatherings.
- Famous musicians have used the guitar to create iconic sounds, shaping the genres of rock, blues, and jazz.
- The electric guitar revolutionized music in the 20th century, becoming a symbol of youth and rebellion.
Science
- The sound of a guitar comes from vibrating strings, which create sound waves through the air.
- Different materials used in making guitars (like wood, nylon, or metal) affect the sound quality and tone.
- Playing the guitar can improve fine motor skills and coordination, providing both physical and mental benefits.
Psychology
- Learning to play the guitar has been shown to reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
- Playing music, including on a guitar, can enhance creativity and cognitive abilities.
- Group guitar lessons foster social skills, as they encourage communication and teamwork among participants.
Literature
- Guitars often appear in literature as symbols of freedom and expression, representing characters' emotions.
- Many famous songs and stories incorporate imagery of guitars, reflecting cultural experiences and personal tales.
- In poetry, the sound of a guitar can evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing, making it a powerful literary device.
Origin of 'guitar'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'guitar' comes from the Latin word 'cithara', which means 'stringed instrument'.
- It evolved from earlier instruments like the lute and the oud, showing a rich history of music development.
- The modern guitar developed in Spain during the Renaissance, becoming a favorite for various music styles.
The word 'guitar' has its origins in Spanish 'guitarra,' which came from the Greek word 'kithara.' The guitar has a long history, evolving from ancient stringed instruments. It gained popularity in Europe during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Today, the guitar is one of the most popular and versatile musical instruments worldwide.
See also: guitarist.