# Cora

/ˈkɔɹə/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cora
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a type of large, traditional harp from West Africa with 21 strings. It is played with the fingers and has a beautiful, clear sound.

For teachers: a West African bridge-harp with 21 strings, traditionally constructed from a large calabash gourd and cowhide. It is played with the thumbs and forefingers, combining features of the lute and the harp.

## Usage notes

- Often spelled 'kora' in modern English; 'cora' is an older or variant spelling found in historical texts.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.