# harmonica

/hɑɹˈmɑnɪkə/ (US) · /hɑːmˈɒnɪkɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/harmonica
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a small musical instrument with metal reeds that you blow into to make sounds. It is often used in folk music and blues.

For teachers: a wind instrument consisting of a series of reeds mounted on a metal plate, played by blowing air through the reeds or drawing air across them.

## Examples

- He plays a beautiful tune on his harmonica.
- The blues musician used a harmonica to add a soulful sound to the live performance.
- While the piano provides the harmonic foundation, the harmonica carries the melody, creating a distinctive contrast between the two instruments in the ensemble.

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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.