How Do You Spell KITHARA?

Pronunciation: [kɪθˈɑːɹə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "kithara" may seem odd to some, but it actually follows phonetic rules. The correct pronunciation is /ˈkɪθərə/ with emphasis on the second syllable. The "th" sound at the beginning is represented by the letter combination "th" while the following "a" sounds are represented by the letter "a". The final "ra" is spelled with the letters "r" and "a". Despite its unusual spelling, "kithara" is an important historical term referring to a type of ancient Greek lyre.

KITHARA Meaning and Definition

1. Kithara, also spelled cithara or cither, is a musical instrument of ancient Greece that belongs to the family of stringed instruments. It can be considered as one of the predecessors of the modern guitar. The kithara was typically larger and more complex than its counterpart lyre, with a box-shaped wooden body, a large soundboard, and several strings stretched horizontally across the body.

   Traditionally, the kithara had seven strings made of gut or metal wire, which were plucked or strummed to produce sound. However, variations in the number of strings were known, ranging from three to twelve, depending on the specific instrument and the musical needs of the player. The larger size of the kithara allowed for a wider tonal range and greater resonance compared to the smaller lyre.

   In ancient Greece, the kithara was highly regarded and often associated with the muses, playing a central role in both secular and sacred music. It was frequently used in public performances, competitions, and various festivities. Skilled musicians would perform virtuosic solo pieces on the kithara, showcasing its versatility and expressive capabilities.

   Over time, the kithara's design and function evolved, and it eventually paved the way for the development of other plucked string instruments in different cultures. Today, the term "kithara" is mainly used in historical and scholarly contexts to refer to this ancient Greek instrument.

Common Misspellings for KITHARA

• jithara
• mithara
• lithara
• oithara
• iithara
• kuthara
• kjthara
• kkthara
• kothara
• k9thara
• k8thara
• kirhara
• kifhara
• kighara
• kiyhara
• ki6hara
• ki5hara
• kitgara
• kitbara

Etymology of KITHARA

The word "kithara" has its origins in ancient Greece. It comes from the Greek word "kitharis" (κιθάρις), which refers to a stringed musical instrument. The kithara was a large, wooden, harp-like instrument, plucked with a plectrum. It was often used in ancient Greek music, accompanying poetry or performances. Over time, the word "kitharis" evolved into "kithara" in English, and it has remained the term used to describe this type of ancient Greek musical instrument.