harpsichord
/ˈhɑː(ɹ)p.sɪ.kɔː(ɹ)d/
HⱭː(ɹ)P · sɪ · kɔː(ɹ)d (3 syllables)
English
Noun Top 37,643
Ad
Definition
A stringed musical instrument with a keyboard, the mechanical precusor to the fortepiano, in which each key causes a plectrum to pluck a corresponding tuned string, producing a bright, sharp tone similar to that of a harp.
Etymology
Early 1600s, borrowed from French harpechord (“harp string”), from New Latin harpichordium, from harpa (“harp”) + chorda (“string”). Influenced by and possibly also borrowed from Italian arpicordo, producing variant spellings. The unetymological -s-, which predominates by the 1660s, is of unclear origin.
Ad