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Harpsichord: meaning, definitions and examples

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harpsichord

 

[ ˈhɑːpsɪkɔːrd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A harpsichord is a keyboard instrument that produces sound by plucking strings with quills or plectra. It was popular in the Baroque period and is known for its unique sound and expressive capabilities.

Synonyms

Baroque instrument, harpsichord instrument, keyboard instrument.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
harpsichord

Refers specifically to the stringed keyboard instrument used predominantly in Renaissance and Baroque music.

  • The musician played a beautiful piece on the harpsichord.
  • The harpsichord adds a unique flavor to early classical compositions.
harpsichord instrument

A more descriptive phrase likely used in a scenario where clarification is needed that the harpsichord is an instrument.

  • She specialized in playing the harpsichord instrument, alongside modern pianos.
  • The harpsichord instrument played a significant role in the evolution of keyboard music.
keyboard instrument

A general term for any instrument with a keyboard, including the piano, organ, and harpsichord, used when discussing keyboard instruments broadly.

  • Keyboards instruments have become a staple in both classical and modern music.
  • Her collection included various keyboard instruments, each with its distinct sound and history.
Baroque instrument

Used when discussing instruments commonly used during the Baroque period (1600-1750), emphasizing historical context.

  • The orchestra included several Baroque instruments, giving an authentic feel to the performance.
  • Learning to play a Baroque instrument can provide insight into historical performance practices.

Examples of usage

  • The harpsichord was widely used in the 16th and 17th centuries.
  • She played a beautiful piece on the harpsichord at the concert.
  • Baroque composers like Bach and Handel wrote many pieces for the harpsichord.
  • The harpsichord has a bright and crisp sound compared to the piano.
  • Listening to the harpsichord can transport you back to the elegant music of the past.

Translations

Translations of the word "harpsichord" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cravo

🇮🇳 हार्पसीकोर्ड

🇩🇪 Cembalo

🇮🇩 harpsichord

🇺🇦 клавесин

🇵🇱 klawesyn

🇯🇵 チェンバロ

🇫🇷 clavecin

🇪🇸 clavicémbalo

🇹🇷 klavsen

🇰🇷 쳄발로

🇸🇦 هاربسكورد

🇨🇿 cembalo

🇸🇰 cembalo

🇨🇳 大键琴

🇸🇮 čembalo

🇮🇸 hörpuharpsikord

🇰🇿 клавесин

🇬🇪 კლავესინი

🇦🇿 klavesin

🇲🇽 clavicémbalo

Etymology

The harpsichord has a rich history dating back to the late Middle Ages. It evolved from the psaltery, an ancient stringed instrument. By the Renaissance period, the harpsichord had gained popularity in Europe, especially among the nobility. Its design and construction underwent various developments over the centuries, leading to the instrument we recognize today. The harpsichord reached its peak during the Baroque era, with composers like Bach and Scarlatti composing masterpieces for it. While the popularity of the harpsichord waned with the rise of the piano in the Classical period, it continues to be appreciated for its unique timbre and historical significance.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,997, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.