psaltery

[sôltri]

psaltery Definition

a musical instrument consisting of a flat soundbox with about 30-40 strings stretched over it that are plucked with the fingers or with small plectra.

Using psaltery: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "psaltery" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The psaltery was popular in medieval Europe and is still used in some folk music today.

  • Example

    She played a beautiful tune on her psaltery.

  • Example

    The psaltery has a unique sound that sets it apart from other stringed instruments.

psaltery Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for psaltery

Phrases with psaltery

  • a type of psaltery that is played with a bow instead of plucking the strings

    Example

    The bow psaltery produces a haunting, ethereal sound.

  • a type of psaltery that is played by striking the strings with small hammers

    Example

    The mountain dulcimer is a popular instrument in Appalachian folk music.

  • a type of psaltery that is played by striking the strings with small hammers

    Example

    The hammered dulcimer is a popular instrument in Middle Eastern and Eastern European music.

Origins of psaltery

from Latin 'psalterium', from Greek 'psaltērion', from 'psallein' meaning 'to play on a stringed instrument'

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Summary: psaltery in Brief

'Psaltery' [sôltri] is a musical instrument with a flat soundbox and 30-40 strings that are plucked with fingers or small plectra. It was popular in medieval Europe and is still used in some folk music today. Variations include the bow psaltery, mountain dulcimer, and hammered dulcimer.