Lute: meaning, definitions and examples

The word 'lute' originates from the Middle English term 'lute,' which itself comes from the Old French 'lut,' derived from the Arabic 'al-ʾūd' (العود), meaning 'the wood.' The instrument is believed to have been introduced to Europe through the Moorish influence on the Iberian Peninsula during the Middle Ages. The lute became highly popular in the 15th and 16th centuries, particularly in the courts and among the aristocracy, often associated with accompanying singers and providing instrumental music in various genres. By the late 17th century, the popularity of the lute began to decline due to the rise of the violin and other baroque instruments, leading to its eventual obscurity in modern music. However, it remains an important historical instrument, still studied and played by enthusiasts and scholars of early music.

With rank #17,362, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 17359 merciless
• 17360 permissions
• 17361 vetoed
• 17362 lute
• 17363 lured
• 17364 quiescent
• 17365 antioxidant
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