How Do You Spell BOURDON?

Pronunciation: [bˈɜːdən] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "bourdon" can be confusing for those unfamiliar with its pronunciation. The word, which refers to a deep, droning sound, is pronounced /ˈbʊərdən/ (BOOR-dən) in IPA phonetic transcription. The "ou" in "bourdon" is pronounced like the "oo" in "book," while the "d" is aspirated, meaning it is pronounced with a puff of air. It is important to remember the correct spelling and pronunciation of words like "bourdon" to communicate effectively and convey meaning accurately.

BOURDON Meaning and Definition

1. Bourdon is a noun that can be described as a deep and low-pitched sound, particularly in reference to a musical instrument. It is often associated with large, heavy bells or pipes, creating a resonating or droning effect. The term originated from the French word "bourdon," which means "bumblebee" or "drone."

   In the context of music, bourdon refers to a specific type of pipe organ stop. This stop consists of long, heavy wooden pipes that produce a fundamental tone with a deep and powerful sound. They are typically used as a foundation in the lower range of the organ, providing a full and sustained bass sound.

   Bourdon can also refer to a specific type of bell, frequently found in ecclesiastical settings such as church towers or cathedrals. These bells are known for their large size and deep resonance, often producing a rich and sonorous sound.

   Outside of music, the term bourdon may also be used more broadly to refer to any continuous, low-pitched sound or hum, such as the buzzing of a bee or the droning of an engine. Furthermore, it can be applied metaphorically to describe a persistent, monotonous, or burdensome aspect of a situation or environment.

2. The tall walking-staff used by pilgrims in the middle ages.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for BOURDON

• vourdon
• nourdon
• hourdon
• gourdon
• biurdon
• bkurdon
• blurdon
• bpurdon
• b0urdon
• b9urdon
• boyrdon
• bohrdon
• bojrdon
• boirdon
• bo8rdon
• bo7rdon
• bouedon
• bouddon
• boufdon

Etymology of BOURDON

The word "bourdon" has multiple origins and meanings depending on the context. Here are two main etymological sources:

1. Music Instrument:

In the context of music, particularly organology, "bourdon" refers to a type of drone pipe or a low-pitched pedal stop in an organ. The etymology of this sense of "bourdon" can be traced back to Old French.

The Old French word "burdon" (or "bourdon") derived from the Vulgar Latin "burdōnum", which originated from the Late Latin "burdō" meaning "a drone or humming sound". This ultimately connects to the verb "burdere" in Late Latin, meaning "to hum or drone". The Latin roots are possibly imitative of the sound itself. Over time, "bourdon" was borrowed into English and retained its meaning of a low drone-like sound.

2.

Similar spelling words for BOURDON

• boredom,
• borodin,
• bortner,
• borton,
• Bordner,
• Bordenet,
• Borden,
• bordonaro,
• boarding,
• borodino,
• Boardman,
• burdonless.

Plural form of BOURDON is BOURDONS