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DictionaryclavierKeyboard instrument
noun

clavier

kluh-VEER/kləˈvɪr/

A keyboard instrument, especially one used in earlier European music.

The clavier rests on a wooden stand, its open lid exposing the strings.

Elegant early clavichord keyboard instrument on wooden stand, open lid shows strings.
Etymology
clavierFrenchkey-bearer; keyboard

The original “key-bearer” named the keyboard rather than the whole instrument. The name then extended to instruments played through a keyboard, including harpsichords, pianos, and organs.

In context

Bösendorfer Official16:18
hammer clavier in the german-speaking countries we do find ample evidence of early attempts at building keyboard instruments capable of dynamic shades here in nuremberg national museum
The History of the Pianoforte - A Documentary by Eva and Paul Badura Skoda

More examples

  • The score was written for clavier.
  • A restored clavier stands in the music room.
  • The collection includes several historic claviers.

Forms

clavier · claviers

Similar words

piano
Piano names a specific instrument; clavier can refer more broadly to keyboard instruments.