Harpsichord

3 definitions found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  Harpsichord \Harp"si*chord\ (-k[^o]rd), n. [OF. harpechorde, in
     which the harpe is of German origin. See {Harp}, and
     {Chord}.] (Mus.)
     A harp-shaped instrument of music set horizontally on legs,
     like the grand piano, with strings of wire, played by the
     fingers, by means of keys provided with quills, instead of


     hammers, for striking the strings. It is now superseded by
     the piano.
     [1913 Webster]

From WordNet (r) 2.0 [wn]:

  harpsichord
       n : a clavier with strings that are plucked by plectra mounted
           on pivots [syn: {cembalo}]

From Moby Thesaurus II by Grady Ward, 1.0 [moby-thes]:

  38 Moby Thesaurus words for "harpsichord":
     Klavier, Steinway, baby grand, cembalo, clarichord, clavicembalo,
     clavichord, clavicittern, clavicymbal, clavicytherium, clavier,
     concert grand, cottage piano, couched harp, dulcimer harpsichord,
     grand, grand piano, hammer dulcimer, harmonichord, manichord,
     manichordon, melodion, melopiano, monochord, pair of virginals,
     parlor grand, pianette, pianino, piano, piano-violin, pianoforte,
     sostinente pianoforte, spinet, square piano, upright,
     upright piano, violin piano, virginal