harpsichord

1 of 2

noun (1)

harp·​si·​chord ˈhärp-si-ˌkȯrd 

: a stringed instrument resembling a grand piano but usually having two keyboards and two or more strings for each note and producing tones by the plucking of strings with plectra

harpsichordist

ˈhärp-si-ˌkȯr-dist 

noun

harpsichordist

2 of 2

noun (2)

harp·​si·​chord·​ist -də̇st 

plural -s

: one who plays the harpsichord

Examples of harpsichord in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Not all of Amos’ new ground is so heavy, though; In Times of Dragons boasts her first use of the harpsichord since 1996’s seminal Boys for Pele. —Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 1 May 2026

The harpsichord was also a victim of the orchestral era. —Tim Parks, New Yorker, 11 Apr. 2026

His wife, Irene, a Chinese philosophy scholar who passed away in 2010, gave him a harpsichord as a surprise present in 1980. —Marc Lipsitch, STAT, 30 Mar. 2026

The production will feature professional opera singers, including a countertenor, accompanied by dancers and live harpsichord music. —Abby Hamblin, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

modification of Italian arpicordo, from arpa harp + corda string

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1611, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for harpsichord

• checkerboard
• clavichord
• fiberboard
• fibreboard
• fingerboard
• motherboard
• notochord
• overboard
• overlord
• paperboard
• plasterboard
• shuffleboard

Kids Definition

harpsichord

noun

harp·​si·​chord ˈhärp-si-ˌkȯ(ə)rd 

: a keyboard instrument similar to a piano but with strings that are plucked rather than struck