mouth harp

noun

, South Midland and Southern U.S.

1. harmonica ( def 1 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of mouth harp¹

An Americanism dating back to 1900–05

Example Sentences

It was a remarkable moment for the young guitarist and lyricist, whose dad became inspired enough to attempt guitar, harmonica and even the mouth harp.

From Washington Times

A posse might interrupt, looking for a gunfight, and a character named JB Cripps often hovers around playing the mouth harp.

From New York Times

When they got around to the front door, they found the grimy old hag playing a mouth harp with one hand while making her limberjack dance with the other.

From Literature

An ancient mouth harp discovered in Russia delighted archaeologists when they confirmed that it could still make a sound.

From National Geographic

The image of a lyre is stitched into two corners of the custom-made rugs in the living room and the dining room; on the opposing corners, you’ll find a likeness of a mouth harp.

From New York Times

Related Words

• harp