How Do You Spell HARPSICHORD?

Pronunciation: [hˈɑːpsɪkˌɔːd] (IPA)

The word "harpsichord" is spelled with an "h" starting the word, but this letter is silent. The "a" is pronounced with the "ah" sound like "car" and the "r" is pronounced as a trill in some dialects or as a simple "r" sound in others. The "p" and "s" sounds are pronounced separately, just as they are written in the word. The "i" is pronounced as a long "e" sound like "bee," and the "c" is pronounced as a "k" sound. The word is spelled /ˈhɑrp.sɪ.kɔrd/ in IPA phonetic transcription.

HARPSICHORD Meaning and Definition

1. A harpsichord is a musical instrument that belongs to the keyboard family. It is similar to a piano in appearance and basic functionality, but operates in a different manner. The harpsichord consists of a series of strings that are plucked by small quills or plectra attached to the keys. This distinguishes it from the piano, where the strings are struck by hammers.

   The strings of a harpsichord are arranged horizontally within a wooden frame, and each string produces a distinct pitch when plucked. The keys are connected to the plectra by a complex system of levers and rods, allowing players to activate the desired strings and produce sound. The volume and dynamics of the harpsichord's sound can be manipulated by varying the force with which the keys are struck.

   Harpsichords were extensively used during the Baroque period, particularly in Europe, and were the primary keyboard instrument at the time. They were valued for their distinctive sound and ability to articulate intricate, ornamented melodies. Despite being less commonly used in contemporary music, harpsichords are still highly regarded and cherished for their historical significance and unique timbre.

   In summary, a harpsichord is a keyboard instrument that produces sound by plucking strings using quills or plectra, as opposed to striking with hammers like a piano. Its historical prominence and characteristic sound make it an important instrument in the history of Western music.

2. A musical instr. strung with wires, and played by striking keys.

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

Common Misspellings for HARPSICHORD

• harsichord
• harpischord
• harpsicord
• garpsichord
• barpsichord
• narpsichord
• jarpsichord
• uarpsichord
• yarpsichord
• hzrpsichord
• hsrpsichord
• hwrpsichord
• hqrpsichord
• haepsichord
• hadpsichord
• hafpsichord
• hatpsichord
• ha5psichord
• ha4psichord
• harosichord
• harpschord
• Harpsichoran
• harpsicorod
• harpsicard
• harpsiccord

Etymology of HARPSICHORD

The word "harpsichord" comes from the combination of two words – "harp" and "chord".

The first part, "harp", is derived from the Old High German word "harpha" and Old Norse word "harp", which both mean "harp". The harp is an ancient musical instrument with strings that are plucked to produce sound.

The second part, "chord", is derived from the Latin word "chorda", which means "string". In music, a chord refers to the simultaneous sounding of multiple musical notes to create harmony.

The combination of these two words, "harp" and "chord", in the term "harpsichord", refers to a musical instrument that produces sound by plucking strings using a mechanical action, rather than by hitting or striking them like a piano.

Similar spelling words for HARPSICHORD

• harpsichordist,
• Harpster.

Plural form of HARPSICHORD is HARPSICHORDS