glass harmonica

noun

1. a musical instrument composed of a set of graduated, revolving glass bowls, the rims of which are moistened and set in vibration by friction from the fingertips.

glass harmonica

noun

1. a musical instrument of the 18th century consisting of a set of glass bowls of graduated pitches, played by rubbing the fingers over the moistened rims or by a keyboard mechanism Sometimes shortened toharmonica Also calledmusical glasses

Word History and Origins

Origin of glass harmonica¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

An instrument that is interesting rather than handsome is the glass harmonica shown in Figure 90.

From Project Gutenberg

He is credited with having devised an improved form of glass harmonica, one of which he presented to Queen Marie Antoinette.

From Project Gutenberg

The glass-harmonica is evidently hurtful to the health of the performer.

From Project Gutenberg