harmonica

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a small rectangular free-reed instrument having a row of free reeds set back in air holes and played by blowing into the desired hole

Etymology

From armonica. Coined by American polymath and statesman Benjamin Franklin to refer to his glass harmonica, an instrument that predated the small wind instrument by several decades. Doublet of harmonic; compare Latin harmonicus.

In classic literature

Synonyms

mouth organ, harp, mouth harp

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