rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryharpsichordKeyboard instrument
noun

harpsichord

HARP-sih-kord/ˈhɑːrpsɪkɔːrd/

A keyboard instrument whose strings are plucked mechanically.

The harpsichord's strings were plucked by its mechanism.

A musician presses the keys of an open harpsichord while small internal mechanisms pluck the stretched strings inside the case.
Etymology
harpsiLatinharp
+chordLatinmusical string

The pieces mean “harp” and “string,” giving the image of a harp string. The connection is the plucked string: a harpsichord produces that sound through a keyboard mechanism.

In context

Janux presenter1:11
which depresses the keys of the harpsichord.
History of Science - Ancient Greek Science - 4.2 Pythagoras and Plato
Ableton presenter34:10
who are a brilliant string orchestra with harpsichord.
Anna Meredith in conversation | Loop

More examples

  • She played a baroque suite on the harpsichord.
  • The ensemble included a harpsichord.
  • A restored harpsichord stood in the music room.

Forms

harpsichord · harpsichords

Similar words

piano
A piano strikes strings with hammers; a harpsichord plucks them.
clavichord
A clavichord strikes strings with tangents that remain in contact; a harpsichord uses plucking jacks.