harmonichord

noun

har·​mon·​i·​chord
härˈmänəˌkȯrd
plural harmonichords
: a 19th-century keyboard instrument in which the strings' tones can be sustained and swelled by means of a rotating cylinder that transfers its vibrations to the strings by means of a rod

Word History

Etymology

French harmonicorde, from harmonie harmony (from Old French armonie) + -corde -chord

First Known Use

1835, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of harmonichord was in 1835

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Dictionary Entries Near harmonichord

Cite this Entry

“Harmonichord.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/harmonichord. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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