How Do You Spell WURLITZER?

Pronunciation: [wˈɜːlɪtsə] (IPA)

The word "Wurlitzer" is a proper noun that refers to a brand of musical instruments. It is pronounced as /wɜːlɪtsər/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The spelling of the word can be explained based on its phonetic composition. The "W" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as /w/, which is a voiced labial-velar approximant. The "ur" in Wurlitzer is pronounced as /ɜːr/, which is an unstressed vowel followed by an r-sound. The "l" in the word is pronounced as /l/, which is a voiced alveolar lateral approximant followed by an unstressed "i" pronounced as /ɪ/. Finally, "tzer" is pronounced as /tsər/, which is a voiced alveolar affricate followed by an unstressed vowel.

WURLITZER Meaning and Definition

  1. Wurlitzer, properly spelled with a capital “W” as it refers to a brand name, is a noun that holds multiple definitions. Primarily, it is associated with musical instruments. A Wurlitzer is a type of electronic musical instrument, specifically an electric piano, invented in the United States by the Rudolph Wurlitzer Company in the mid-20th century. It consists of a keyboard with metal reeds that produce sound when struck by hammers, similar to a traditional piano, but with an entirely different tone and character. The Wurlitzer's unique sound was achieved by amplifying the vibrations created by the reeds, resulting in a distinctive warm and slightly distorted tone. Due to its distinct timbre and its prominence in various musical genres, the Wurlitzer became a popular instrument in recording studios, especially in jazz, funk, and soul music.

    Another definition of Wurlitzer refers to the Rudolph Wurlitzer Company itself. Founded in 1856 in the United States, the company initially manufactured pipe organs and later expanded into the production of jukeboxes, player pianos, theater organs, and electronic instruments such as the Wurlitzer electric piano. Wurlitzer has become synonymous with high-quality musical instruments and sound systems.

    Figuratively, the term "Wurlitzer" may also be used to symbolize nostalgia, old-fashioned entertainment, or a particular era, often associated with the vibrant culture of the mid-20th century.

Common Misspellings for WURLITZER

Etymology of WURLITZER

The word "Wurlitzer" originates from the German surname "Würzweiler". The Wurlitzer family, originally from the small town of Würzweiler in Germany, became renowned for manufacturing musical instruments. In the late 19th century, a German immigrant named Rudolph Wurlitzer established the Rudolph Wurlitzer Company in the United States. This company primarily produced pianos, pipe organs, and jukeboxes. Over time, the name "Wurlitzer" became synonymous with their musical instruments and the company's brand. The term "Wurlitzer" is often associated with various musical products, most notably with the Wurlitzer electric piano that gained popularity in the mid-20th century.

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