clavichord
1 synonym for clavichord, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A quiet early keyboard instrument in which small metal blades strike the strings when the keys are pressed.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
manichord
How to use clavichord
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
play the clavichord
a clavichord piece
the sound of a clavichord
It is a specialist musical term, mostly used when discussing early or historical keyboard instruments.
Etymology
Clavichord entered English from the German word Klavichord. That word goes back to Renaissance Latin clavichordium, itself built from clavis, meaning key, and chorda, meaning cord or string.
Full origin of clavichord →Frequently asked questions
What is a clavichord?
It is an early keyboard instrument that makes a soft sound because metal blades called tangents strike the strings when the keys are pressed.
How is a clavichord different from a harpsichord?
A clavichord's strings are struck by metal tangents, while a harpsichord's strings are plucked, which gives the harpsichord a louder, more even tone.
Where does the word clavichord come from?
It comes from German Klavichord, which traces back to Latin clavis (key) and chorda (string).
