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Piano: meaning, definitions and examples

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piano

 

[piˈanəʊ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A piano is a large musical instrument with a row of black and white keys that are pressed to play notes. It produces sound by striking strings with hammers.

Synonyms

grand piano, keyboard, upright piano.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
piano

General term used to refer to any type of piano, suitable for most contexts when you're speaking about the instrument in general.

  • She has been playing the piano since she was five
  • They have a beautiful piano in their living room
keyboard

Used when talking about electronic versions of the piano, often portable and sometimes with additional features like different instrument sounds. Suitable for informal and modern settings.

  • He played his favorite songs on the keyboard during the party
  • An electric keyboard is easier to move than a piano
grand piano

Best used when referring to a large, typically more expensive and professional piano. Common in concert halls and professional settings.

  • The grand piano on stage was simply magnificent
  • She saved for years to buy a grand piano for her music room
upright piano

Used for pianos that are vertical and more compact, suitable for homes and smaller spaces. Less grand or professional compared to a grand piano but still a full piano.

  • They decided an upright piano would fit better in their apartment
  • Even with limited space, an upright piano can provide a rich sound

Examples of usage

  • The pianist played a beautiful melody on the piano.
  • She practiced for hours every day to improve her piano skills.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The piano was invented in Italy by Bartolomeo Cristofori around 1700.
  • Initially called the 'pianoforte,' it blends the Italian words for soft and loud, representing how it can play different volumes.
  • The instrument evolved from earlier keyboard instruments like the harpsichord and clavichord.

Cultural Impact

  • Jazz music relies heavily on the piano, showcasing its versatility and central role in American musical history.
  • The piano features prominently in many famous classical compositions, such as Beethoven's sonatas and Chopin's nocturnes.
  • In pop culture, iconic songs like 'Let It Be' by The Beatles and 'Clair de Lune' by Debussy highlight its melodic beauty.

Science

  • Playing the piano can enhance cognitive skills and improve memory due to the brain's complex processing of music.
  • Studies show that learning to play may increase brain connectivity and strengthen motor skills.
  • The piano has a specific acoustical design that allows sound waves to resonate, creating a rich tone quality.

Literature

  • In literature, the piano often symbolizes emotion, expressing feelings that words cannot convey, as seen in various novels and poems.
  • Famous playwright Tennessee Williams used it as a recurring motif in his work, symbolizing hope and despair.
  • Author and musician Haruki Murakami often features pianos in his storytelling, linking music to human experiences.

Technology

  • Modern digital pianos use technology to replicate sound and feel of acoustic pianos while being more portable.
  • Software apps now allow aspiring musicians to learn piano virtually, making music education more accessible.
  • Innovations like self-playing pianos have gained popularity, allowing anyone to enjoy music even without playing themselves.

Translations

Translations of the word "piano" in other languages:

🇵🇹 piano

🇮🇳 पियानो

🇩🇪 Klavier

🇮🇩 piano

🇺🇦 піано

🇵🇱 fortepian

🇯🇵 ピアノ

🇫🇷 piano

🇪🇸 piano

🇹🇷 piyano

🇰🇷 피아노

🇸🇦 بيانو

🇨🇿 piano

🇸🇰 piano

🇨🇳 钢琴

🇸🇮 piano

🇮🇸 píanó

🇰🇿 пиано

🇬🇪 პიანინო

🇦🇿 piano

🇲🇽 piano

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,205 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.