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SINCE 1828
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free reed

noun
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Definition of free reed

: a reed in a musical instrument (such as a harmonica) that vibrates in an air opening just large enough to allow the reed to move freely — compare beating reed

Examples of free reed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Chinese invented a free reed instrument, called the Sheng, several thousand years ago, but the model that arrived in America originated in Europe. — Joan Hunt, courant.com, "Bob Hennessy Shares His “World Of Harmonica”," 21 Nov. 2019 Last week, the members of the Mutant Underground were able to free Reed (Stephen Moyer) and Lorna/Polaris (Emma Dumont) from Sentinel Services. — Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY, "TV tonight: 'Superior Donuts' premiere, 'The Gifted'," 30 Oct. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'free reed.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of free reed

1833, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of free reed was in 1833

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Cite this Entry

“Free reed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/free%20reed. Accessed 30 May. 2020.

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Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with free reed

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about free reed

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