CITTERN Meaning and
Definition
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A cittern is a musical instrument that belongs to the lute family and surfaced during the Renaissance period. It features a flat-backed body that is typically pear-shaped or teardrop-shaped with a rounded soundboard made of wood like spruce or cedar. The cittern usually has ten strings that are grouped into pairs called courses, where each pair is tuned to the same note. The courses are usually made of gut or metal, and the strings are plucked either with the fingers or a pick.
With its origins in Europe, the cittern was a popular instrument during the 16th and 17th centuries. It was commonly used for accompanying vocal music and was a favorite among troubadours, minstrels, and court musicians. Its bright and resonant tone allowed it to cut through the sound of other instruments and projects well in large spaces.
Over time, the design of the cittern varied across different regions, leading to different names such as English cittern, bandore, orpharion, and Portuguese guitar. However, the basic structure and playing technique remained similar.
Although the cittern experienced a decline in popularity in the 18th century, it has seen a revival in recent years among early music enthusiasts and folk musicians. Its unique sound and historical significance make it a remarkable instrument that bridges the gap between the past and the present.
Common Misspellings for CITTERN
- xittern
- dittern
- cuttern
- cjttern
- ckttern
- cottern
- c9ttern
- c8ttern
- ciftern
- cigtern
- ciytern
- ci6tern
- ci5tern
- citrern
- citfern
- cit6ern
- cit5ern
- cittwrn
- cittsrn
Etymology of CITTERN
The word "cittern" has its roots in medieval Europe. It is derived from the Middle English word "citole", which was used to refer to a stringed instrument during the 13th and 14th centuries. The word "citole" itself came from the Latin word "cithara", meaning "lyre" or "harp", which was borrowed from the Greek word "kithara".
Over time, the instrument underwent various modifications and changes in construction, resulting in the modern "cittern" as it is known today. The term "cittern" has been used to describe different types of stringed instruments throughout history, with variations in shape, string configuration, and playing technique. It is commonly associated with European folk music and was particularly popular during the Renaissance period.
Similar spelling words for CITTERN
- citron,
- stern,
- citronwood,
- bitten,
- mitten,
- kitten,
- citrine,
- citrange,
- pattern,
- citrin,
- Cithern.
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