# harpsichord

/ˈhɑɹpsəˌkɔɹd/ (US) · /hˈɑːpsɪkˌɔːd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/harpsichord
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

a keyboard instrument like an early piano, but its strings are plucked to make a bright, sharp sound. People played it a lot in Baroque music before the modern piano took over.

For teachers: a keyboard instrument in which strings are plucked by quills or plectra when keys are pressed, producing a bright, crisp tone without dynamic variation by touch. Prominent in Baroque solo and continuo repertoire before displacement by the pianoforte.

## Examples

- She plays the harpsichord every Sunday morning.
- The museum lets visitors hear a restored harpsichord from the 1700s during the afternoon concert.
- The restored harpsichord fills the small hall with bright, plucked tones that suit fast old dances and rich harmonies.

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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.