harp
Harp (noun) means a large stringed musical instrument played by plucking strings stretched across an open frame. Example: “She plucked a gentle melody on the harp.”
How to use harp
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe stringed instrument, or (as a verb) to keep going on about the same complaint.
"Harp on" always needs a topic — you harp on something, not just harp.
Word forms
harped past tense, harps singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She plucked a gentle melody on the _____.
Etymology
From Old English hearpe, going back to a shared Germanic root — the same word appears as Harfe in German and harpa in Swedish.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for harp
See all rhymes for harp →Frequently asked questions
What does “harp” mean?
The word “harp” means a large stringed musical instrument played by plucking strings stretched across an open frame. In plain terms, the stringed instrument, or (as a verb) to keep going on about the same complaint.
How do you pronounce “harp”?
“Harp” is pronounced hahp (/hɑɹp/ in IPA).
How do you use “harp” in a sentence?
Here is “harp” used in a sentence: “She plucked a gentle melody on the harp.”
What is another word for “harp”?
Words with a similar meaning to “harp” include keep on about and perseverate.
What part of speech is “harp”?
Depending on how it is used, “harp” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “harp” come from?
The word “harp” comes from Old English. From Old English hearpe, going back to a shared Germanic root — the same word appears as Harfe in German and harpa in Swedish.
Is “harp” a common word?
“Harp” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “harp” have?
“Harp” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a large stringed musical instrument played by plucking strings stretched across an open frame.
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