clavichord

[ klav-i-kawrd ]

noun

1. an early keyboard instrument producing a soft sound by means of metal blades attached to the inner ends of the keys gently striking the strings.

clavichord

/ ˈklævɪˌkɔːd /

noun

1. a keyboard instrument consisting of a number of thin wire strings struck from below by brass tangents. The instrument is noted for its delicate tones, since the tangents do not rebound from the string until the key is released

Derived Forms

• ˈclaviˌchordist, noun

Other Words From

• clavi·chordist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clavichord¹

1425–75; late Middle English < Medieval Latin clāvichordium, equivalent to Latin clāvi ( s ) key + chord ( a ) chord ² + -ium -ium

Word History and Origins

Origin of clavichord¹

C15: from Medieval Latin clāvichordium, from Latin clāvis key + chorda string, chord ¹

Example Sentences

Reischach led the newcomer to the clavichord in the panelled room, and the company gathered near the garden-door to listen.

From Project Gutenberg

There is a clavichord in the panelled room, and we will leave the garden door open in order to hear the music.

From Project Gutenberg

From Austria the "clavichord" as it was usually called in those days (because it had "craves" or keys) went to Italy.

From Project Gutenberg

The Italians called an instrument with a 'jack' action like the virginal by the name clavichord.

From Project Gutenberg

The clavichord followed in due course, and by a rapid process of development regals, organs, and virginals evolved.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• grand piano
• instrument
• keyboard