Pronunciation: [ˈɔːɡz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Orgues" may be confusing due to its silent "s". However, it can be understood through its phonetic transcription, which is /ɔʁɡ/ (awr-g). The "o" is pronounced as "au", while the "g" is pronounced with a guttural sound. The final "es" is silent, making the word sound like "awr". This word, which means "organs" in French, is commonly used in the context of music and refers to a type of instrument.
Orgues is a plural noun in French that refers to a musical instrument known as organ in English. The term "orgues" primarily signifies a large musical instrument consisting of a keyboard and multiple pipes that produce sound through the flow of air. It is composed of several components, including a console, keyboards, stops, and a wind system.
The console of "orgues" is the control panel from which the organist plays the instrument, typically with multiple manuals or keyboards for the performance of different parts. Stops are a series of vertical levers or knobs that control the different sets of pipes. These stops allow the organist to select the sound and volume of the pipes they want to use.
The most distinctive feature of orgues is the pipes themselves. Pipes are categorized into different families or ranks, such as flutes, reeds, strings, and mixtures, each producing a unique sound quality. The pipes are classified based on their length, material, shape, and method of sound production.
Often found in churches, cathedrals, and concert halls, orgues serve a central role in religious ceremonies, classical music performances, and even popular music genres. There is a rich history surrounding the design, construction, and development of orgues, with various types and styles prevalent worldwide.
Whether digital or traditional, orgues continue to captivate audiences with their majestic and versatile sound. The art of playing orgues, known as organ playing, requires skillful coordination of hands and feet, with complex harmonies, registration techniques, and pedal work, allowing for an expressive and polyphonic performance.
In mil., pieces of timber, pointed and shod with iron, to be hung over a gateway and let down in case of attack; a sort of internal machine made of loaded gun-barrels to be discharged in defending a breach.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Orgues" has its origins in the Middle French word "orgues" or "orgue", which in turn comes from the Latin word "organum", meaning "instrument, implement, or tool". The Latin word was borrowed from the Greek "órganon", which had a similar meaning. The term "Organum" was commonly used in the early Christian era to refer to a musical instrument known as the organ. Over time, the word "orgues" evolved into its current usage as a term used to refer to a type of musical instrument, particularly the pipe organ.
