How Do You Spell SHAMISEN?

Pronunciation: [ʃˈama͡ɪsən] (IPA)

The word "shamisen" is a musical instrument native to Japan. Its spelling may seem difficult to pronounce for non-native speakers, but it is actually quite simple to break down with IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced /ʃa/, like the "sh" sound in "shoulder." The second syllable is pronounced /mi/, like the "mee" sound in "meet." Finally, the third syllable is pronounced /sen/, like the "sen" sound in "sent." Thus, "shamisen" is pronounced /ʃa-mi-sen/.

SHAMISEN Meaning and Definition

1. The shamisen is a traditional three-stringed musical instrument originating from Japan. With a history stretching back several centuries, it holds a prominent place in Japanese culture and traditional music. The term "shamisen" can be translated directly as "three strings" – "shami" means "three" while "sen" refers to "strings" in Japanese.

   The instrument consists of a rounded rectangular body, usually made from hardwood, covered with a skin membrane, and bound with strings. The three strings, usually made of silk or nylon, are attached to a long neck and are plucked with a small, delicate plectrum known as a "bachi."

   The shamisen is played by musicians who are highly skilled in its technique and observe a variety of traditional playing styles. It is often used to accompany traditional Japanese folk songs and geisha performances. Furthermore, it has found its way into contemporary music as well, with many modern artists incorporating the shamisen into their compositions, blending traditional and contemporary sounds.

   When played, the shamisen produces a distinct and rich timbre, creating a sound that is both expressive and captivating. Its versatility allows for a wide range of musical expressions, enabling performers to convey different moods and emotions through its melodic tones.

   Overall, the shamisen is an iconic and significant instrument in Japanese music, deeply rooted in cultural traditions while also evolving to adapt to modern influences. Its unique sound and distinctive appearance contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a cherished musical instrument both within Japan and around the world.

Common Misspellings for SHAMISEN

• shajisen
• shamisej
• shamien
• sha-isen
• shaeisen
• shaoisen
• shamiseo

Etymology of SHAMISEN

The word "shamisen" has its origins in the Japanese language. The term "shamisen" (三味線) is composed of three characters: "san" (三) meaning "three", "mi" (味) meaning "taste" or "flavor", and "sen" (線) meaning "string" or "stringed instrument". The name "shamisen" reflects the fact that the instrument traditionally has three strings. It is believed to have been derived from the Chinese instrument called "sanxian", which also means "three strings". Over time, the instrument and its name have evolved in Japan, gaining significant cultural significance and becoming an integral part of traditional Japanese music.

Similar spelling word for SHAMISEN

• samisen.

Plural form of SHAMISEN is SHAMISENS