BARREL ORGAN Meaning and
Definition
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A barrel organ is a mechanical musical instrument that produces music by means of a barrel with protruding pins that pluck or strike various internal pipes or metal teeth. It comprises a wooden cabinet in the shape of a large upright barrel, often adorned with intricate carvings. The barrel organ's mechanism is driven by a hand crank, manually operated by turning a handle.
The barrel, made of wood, is perforated with a series of holes, into which the pins are inserted in different patterns corresponding to the desired tune. As the barrel rotates, the pins activate different sets of valves or levers, controlling the flow of air through the pipes. This creates the harmonic notes and rhythmic sequences that produce the music. The pipes, ranging in sizes and materials, are organized into different ranks or divisions, each producing a distinct sound.
Barrel organs have been known since the 18th century and were popular in many European countries as portable music boxes. Often seen at fairs, carnivals, and street performances, they could be played solo or accompanied by other instruments. The repertoire of a barrel organ can vary widely, from popular tunes and folk melodies to classical compositions and hymns.
Today, barrel organs are considered historical curiosities or collector's items, and their musical charm and craftsmanship continue to captivate enthusiasts and admirers of bygone musical traditions.
Common Misspellings for BARREL ORGAN
- varrel organ
- narrel organ
- harrel organ
- garrel organ
- bzrrel organ
- bsrrel organ
- bwrrel organ
- bqrrel organ
- baerel organ
- badrel organ
- bafrel organ
- batrel organ
- ba5rel organ
- ba4rel organ
- bareel organ
- bardel organ
- barfel organ
- bartel organ
- bar5el organ
Etymology of BARREL ORGAN
The word "barrel organ" originated from the merging of two distinct words with separate etymologies.
1. "Barrel" - The term "barrel" can be traced back to the Middle English word "barail", which derived from the Old French word "barel". This Old French term ultimately came from the Late Latin word "barica", meaning "barrel" or "cask". The Latin word, in turn, was borrowed from the Greek word "bárykos", which referred to a larger vessel such as a wine barrel.
2. "Organ" - The word "organ" can be traced back to the Greek word "orgănon", meaning "an instrument". This Greek term was borrowed from the earlier Proto-Indo-European word "*h₃erḱ-", which also meant "instrument" or "tool".
Similar spelling word for BARREL ORGAN
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