Pronunciation: [hˈɔːtbɔ͡ɪ] (IPA) 
Hautboy is a musical instrument also known as the oboe. The spelling of the word can be confusing due to its historical roots. The word comes from the French hautbois, which means "high wood". The tricky part is how to spell the "o" sound - it is represented by two different letters, "ou" and "oy". In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /hoʊbɔɪ/, which shows the two sounds combined to form the final pronunciation.
The term "hautboy" refers to a musical instrument of the wind family, known for its distinctive reedy sound. Specifically, it pertains to a small woodwind instrument consisting of a slender, conical tube with finger holes, a flared bell, and a double reed mouthpiece. The hautboy, also called oboe or baroque oboe, is characterized by its piercing and clear tone produced by blowing air through the double reed, which causes the reeds to vibrate. The instrument typically measures about 62 centimeters in length and possesses a range of two and a half octaves.
Originating in Europe during the early 18th century, the hautboy gained popularity during the Baroque period, primarily in orchestras and chamber ensembles. Its versatility allowed it to adapt to various genres of music, including solos, melodic lines, and accompaniments. The hautboy's wooden construction and intricate design require precision and fine craftsmanship, resulting in a delicate instrument capable of producing elaborate musical textures.
The term "hautboy" can also refer to a player of the instrument, somebody skilled in performing on the oboe. These musicians undergo extensive training to master the complex techniques and intricacies of the instrument, developing their abilities to express emotion and enhance musical compositions. Furthermore, "hautboy" may have been derived from the French words "haut bois," meaning "high wood," which alludes to the octave-register capabilities of the oboe family.
A wind instrument like a flute, also called oboe; a large sort of strawberry.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hautboy" has its origins in the French language. It is derived from the Old French words "haut" meaning "high" and "bois" meaning "wood". Thus, "hautboy" literally translates to "high wood". The term was used in English to refer to a musical instrument called the oboe, which is a woodwind instrument with a high pitch. Over time, "hautboy" became synonymous with "oboe" and is still used in some contexts to refer to this instrument.
