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Definition of harpsichord
harpsichord
/ˈhɑːrp.sɪ.kɔːrd/
harp · si · chord
Plural:harpsichords
harpsichord Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
7
Tier
2
Usage
Rare
harpsichord Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• noun
1
A keyboard instrument, widely used during the Renaissance and Baroque periods, that produces sound by plucking strings with small plectra made of quill, leather, or plastic.
Example
"The bright, metallic timbre of the harpsichord is a defining characteristic of Johann Sebastian Bach's concertos."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for harpsichordWord Nuance & Usage
Unlike the modern piano, which strikes its strings with hammers to allow for varied dynamics, the harpsichord plucks its strings, producing a uniform volume regardless of how forcefully the keys are pressed.
Word Origin & Etymology
Early 17th century: from French 'harpechorde' or Modern Latin 'harpicordum', combining Late Latin 'harpa' (harp) and Latin 'chorda' (string). The 's' was likely inserted by English speakers through association with the word 'harpsichord' itself.
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Harpsichord. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 14, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/harpsichord