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Definition of harp
harp
/hɑːrp/
harp
Plural:harps
•Past Simple:harped
•Past Participle:harped
•Present Participle:harping
harp Lexical Profile
CEFR
B2
Grade
4
Tier
2
Usage
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harp Game Scores & Validity
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Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A large, stringed musical instrument with a roughly triangular frame and strings that run perpendicular to the soundboard, played by plucking with the fingers.
Example
"The symphony orchestra's performance was elevated by the delicate, angelic notes of the harp."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for harp• verb
1
To talk or complain persistently and tediously on a particular topic.
Example
"She tends to harp on her past grievances whenever we get together for dinner."
2
To play on a harp.
Example
"The court minstrel harped a melancholic tune for the ailing king."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for harp Antonyms
View all antonyms for harpWord Nuance & Usage
When used as a verb, 'harp' is almost exclusively followed by the preposition 'on' to describe persistent, annoying repetition of a topic.
• Rhymes for harp
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'hearpe', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'harp' and German 'Harfe'.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Harp. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/harp