harp
The definition of a harp is a string instrument that is played by plucking the strings which are set in an open triangular frame, or the metal frame on a lamp that hold the lampshade.
(noun)An example of a harp is the instrument angels are often depicted as playing.
Harp is defined as to play the string instrument commonly associated with angels, or to persist in discussing something that others don't want to discuss.
(verb)- An example of harp is to play the stringed harp instrument in an orchestra.
- An example of harp is to continually bring up a fight that happened five years ago.
See harp in Webster's New World College Dictionary
noun
- a musical instrument with strings stretched vertically in an open, triangular frame and played by plucking with the fingers: the modern harp has usually forty-six strings and, to permit the playing of halftones, seven foot-pedals
- a harp-shaped object or implement
- Slang harmonica (sense )
Origin: ME < OE hearpe, akin to Ger harfe < Gmc *harpa < IE base *(s)kerb(h)-, to bend, curve (> shrimp): from the shape of the instrument
intransitive verb
- to play a harp
- to persist in talking or writing tediously or continuously (on or upon something)
transitive verb
Related Forms:
- harper noun
See harp in American Heritage Dictionary 4
noun
- Music a. An instrument having an upright triangular frame consisting of a pillar, a curved neck, and a hollow back containing the sounding board, with usually 46 or 47 strings of graded lengths that are played by plucking with the fingers.b. Any of various ancient and modern instruments of similar construction.c. Informal A harmonica.
- Something, such as a pair of vertical supports for a lampshade, that resembles a harp.
Origin:
Origin: Middle English
Origin: , from Old English hearpe
Origin: and from Old French harpe
Origin: , of Germanic origin
.Related Forms:
- harpˈer noun
- harpˈist noun
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harp
for a lampshade
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