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Webster 1913 Edition


Harpsichord

Harp′si-chord

(-kôrd)
,
Noun.
[OF.
harpechorde
, in which the
harpe
is of German origin. See
Harp
, and
Chord
.]
(Mus.)
A harp-shaped instrument of music set horizontally on legs, like the grand piano, with strings of wire, played by the fingers, by means of keys provided with quills, instead of hammers, for striking the strings. It is now superseded by the piano.

Webster 1828 Edition


Harpsichord

H`ARPSICHORD

,
Noun.
[harp and chord.] An instrument of music with strings of wire, played by the fingers, by means of keys. The striking of these keys moves certain little jacks, which move a double row of chords or strings, stretched over four bridges on the table of the instrument.