Definition of harp
1 : a plucked stringed instrument consisting of a resonator, an arched or angled neck that may be supported by a post, and strings of graded length that are perpendicular to the soundboard
2 : something resembling a harp
3 : harmonica 2
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Illustration of harp
Origin and Etymology of harp
Middle English, from Old English hearpe; akin to Old High German harpha harp
First Known Use: before 12th century
harp
Definition of harp
intransitive verb
1 : to play on a harp
2 : to dwell on or recur to a subject tiresomely or monotonously —usually used with on
Before 12th Century
First Known Use of harp
before 12th century
HARP Defined for English Language Learners
harp
playDefinition of harp for English Language Learners
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: a musical instrument that has strings stretched across a large open frame and that is played with your fingers
HARP Defined for Kids
Definition of harp for Students
: a musical instrument consisting of a triangular frame set with strings that are plucked by the fingers
Definition of harp for Students
harped
;harping
: to call attention to something over and over again The teacher harped on her mistake.
Learn More about harp
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See words that rhyme with harp Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for harp Spanish Central: Translation of harp Nglish: Translation of harp for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of harp for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about harp
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