MANICHORD Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Manichord" refers to a type of musical instrument that combines elements of both a piano and a harpsichord. The Manichord is a keyboard instrument that typically consists of strings that are plucked or struck by small hammers when keys are pressed, similar to a harpsichord. However, unlike a traditional harpsichord, the Manichord also includes a dampening mechanism that allows the performers to dampen or stop the sound of the strings by releasing the keys, similar to a piano.
The sound production in a Manichord is achieved by the use of small hammers that are activated by the keys, resulting in a percussive and plucked-like sound. The dampening mechanism is crucial in controlling the duration and sustain of the sound, allowing the performer to enhance the expressiveness and dynamics of their playing.
The term "Manichord" is believed to have originated from the combination of the words "manifold" and "chord," highlighting the instrument's ability to produce a multifaceted sound through the combination of multiple strings and notes.
The exact origins and historical development of the Manichord remain uncertain, as there are limited records and information available. However, the concept of combining elements from the piano and harpsichord demonstrates the inventiveness of musicians and instrument-makers throughout history in their quest to expand the possibilities of sound production and musical expression.
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A musical stringed instr. whose strings were covered with little pieces of cloth to soften or subdue the sounds.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MANICHORD
- nanichord
- kanichord
- janichord
- mznichord
- msnichord
- mwnichord
- mqnichord
- mabichord
- mamichord
- majichord
- mahichord
- manuchord
- manjchord
- mankchord
- manochord
- man9chord
- man8chord
- manixhord
- manivhord
- manifhord
Etymology of MANICHORD
The word "manichord" is a combination of two words: "mani-" and "-chord".
The first part, "mani-", is derived from the name of the influential Persian religious leader Mani (also known as Manichaeus, Manes, or Manichaios), who founded the religion of Manichaeism in the 3rd century CE. Manichaeism was a syncretic religion that combined elements from various religious traditions such as Zoroastrianism, Christianity, and Buddhism.
The second part, "-chord", comes from the word "chord", which refers to a musical instrument constructed by stretching strings across a resonating body or frame. The name "manichord" was given to a type of stringed musical instrument that was invented during the Renaissance period. It was a small portable harpsichord-like instrument with a unique design and distinctive sound.
