noun
spinet
A small harpsichord.
The musician plays a lively tune on the small spinet.
Etymology
The Italian instrument-name is traditionally connected with spina, thorn, through the small points that pluck its strings. That naming explanation remains qualified rather than certain.
In context
bent side spinet this 17th century italian keyboard spread quickly throughout europe and produces a dark and quiet tone with an aesthetically stunning look that resembles a harp laid horizontally
More examples
- A spinet takes up less room than a full-size harpsichord.
- The spinet's strings are plucked rather than struck by hammers.
- The museum displays two spinets beside a larger harpsichord.
Forms
spinet · spinets
Similar words
- harpsichord
- Names the broader instrument type, not necessarily a compact version.
- virginal
- A related compact harpsichord, usually with a rectangular case.