Simple Definition of barrel organ

from our Learner's Dictionary

barrel organ

noun

plural barrel organs
: a large musical instrument that is played by turning a handle and that was once commonly played by performers (called organ-grinders) on city streets

called also hurdy-gurdy

Cite this Entry

“Barrel organ.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/barrel%20organ. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

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