hurdy-gurdy

noun

hur·dy-gur·dy | \ˌhər-dē-ˈgər-dē,

ˈhər-dē-ˌgər-\

plural hurdy-gurdies

Definition of hurdy-gurdy

1 : a stringed instrument in which sound is produced by the friction of a rosined wheel turned by a crank against the strings and the pitches are varied by keys

2 : any of various mechanical musical instruments (such as the barrel organ)

Keep scrolling for more

Learn More about hurdy-gurdy

Dictionary Entries near hurdy-gurdy

Statistics for hurdy-gurdy

Look-up Popularity

Time Traveler for hurdy-gurdy

The first known use of hurdy-gurdy was in 1745

See more words from the same year

Keep scrolling for more

More Definitions for hurdy-gurdy

hurdy-gurdy

noun

English Language Learners Definition of hurdy-gurdy

: a stringed musical instrument that is played by turning a handle

See the full definition for hurdy-gurdy in the English Language Learners Dictionary

Comments on hurdy-gurdy

What made you want to look up hurdy-gurdy? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

WORD OF THE DAY

rebuff

to reject or criticize sharply

Test Your Vocabulary

Words from Greek and Roman Mythology Quiz

Boreal comes from the name of the ancient Greek god of which wind?

How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ

Word Winder's CrossWinder

Test Your Knowledge - and learn some interesting things along the way.

TAKE THE QUIZ

Words at Play

Ask the Editors

Word Games