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Plectrum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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plectrum

[หˆplษ›ktrษ™m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A small flat piece of plastic, metal, or other material with a thin edge for plucking the strings of a musical instrument, typically a guitar.

Synonyms

guitar pick, pick.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plectrum

Used similarly as 'plectrum' (they are the same word), mainly in formal or technical discussions related to music.

  • Ancient musicians used a type of plectrum to play stringed instruments.
  • The museum displayed a collection of historical plectra from various cultures.
pick

Colloquial and informal, often used by musicians and guitar players in casual conversation. The context usually implies that it is a guitar pick, even if 'guitar' is not specified.

  • I canโ€™t find my pick, and I need it for practice.
  • She always prefers to use a medium pick for her acoustic guitar.
guitar pick

Widely used in casual or everyday conversation, particularly among guitar players. It's the most common term used to describe the tool for strumming or picking a guitar.

  • Do you have an extra guitar pick I can borrow?
  • He lost his guitar pick right before the performance.

Examples of usage

  • He used a plectrum to play the guitar.
  • She lost her favorite plectrum before the concert.
Context #2 | Noun

anatomy

A bony or horny plate on the upper mandible of birds, with which they hold or break food.

Synonyms

beak plate, mandibular plate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
plectrum

Used in music, specifically referring to a small flat tool used to pluck or strum stringed instruments like guitars or mandolins.

  • The guitarist used a plectrum to strum the strings.
  • She prefers using a plectrum for a cleaner sound.
beak plate

Primarily used in zoology, particularly when describing the hard outer part of a birdโ€™s beak.

  • The scientist studied the structure of the eagle's beak plate.
  • Beak plates are strong enough to break open seeds and nuts.
mandibular plate

Used in anatomy and zoology, referring to the part of the jaw region in various animals, including vertebrates.

  • The mandibular plate of the fish was examined under a microscope.
  • Damage to the mandibular plate can hinder an animal's ability to eat.

Examples of usage

  • The bird used its plectrum to crack open the seed.
  • The plectrum of the parrot is very strong.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Instruments

  • Plectra can be made from different materials such as plastic, metal, or wood, each affecting the sound when strumming strings.
  • Certain types of string instruments like mandolins and ukeleles often require different shaped plectra for optimal sound.
  • Some musicians create personalized plectra, adding their artwork or designs, making them both functional and unique.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, playing string instruments with a plectrum is a key part of traditional music, such as Flamenco in Spain.
  • Plectra have appeared in various art forms, symbolizing music and creativity in paintings and sculptures throughout history.
  • The use of the plectrum is celebrated in music festivals, highlighting its importance in modern and classical performances.

Science

  • Studies have shown that the thickness and shape of a plectrum can influence sound quality and playability.
  • Different plucking techniques with a plectrum can also create varying tones, demonstrating the physics of sound production.
  • Acoustic scientists analyze how the material of a plectrum interacts with strings, merging art with technical study.

Famous Musicians

  • Notable guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton have used specific types of plectra that matched their unique playing styles.
  • Innovative musicians often design custom plectra that reflect their personal brand, adding to their musical identity.
  • Some rock legends have turned plectrum usage into an art form, elevating its status in the music world beyond a mere tool.

Origin of 'plectrum'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'plectrum' comes from the Latin word 'plectrum', which means 'to strike' or 'to touch'.
  • Ancient Greeks used the term 'plektron' for the same concept, indicating the tool has been used for centuries.
  • Plectrums have been found in various materials throughout history, from stone to tortoiseshell, showcasing their evolution.

The word 'plectrum' originated from the Latin word 'plectrum', which means 'a little stick'. It was first used in English in the mid 17th century. The use of plectrums for musical instruments, especially for guitars, became popular in the 20th century with the rise of guitar playing in various music genres.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,785, 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.