virginals
1
9.9
- noun
- /ˈvɜrdʒɪnəlz/
- Archaic
- She played a beautiful piece on the virginals that captivated everyone in the room.
Examples
-
The virginals were commonly found in homes during the Renaissance, often used for both practice and performance.
-
Engraving after Jan Vermeer, A Lady Standing at the Virginals (from Gazette des Beaux-Arts, 1866; photo: J. Cook).
Academic text (1994) -
During the concert, the musician showcased her skills on the virginals, enchanting the audience.
Synonyms
1
9.9
A small rectangular keyboard like a simple harpsichord played on a table
A rectangular instrument without legs with keys like a harpsichord, often played by women in the 1500s and 1600s
Compounds
- Archaic
A rectangular instrument without legs with keys like a harpsichord, often played by women in the 1500s and 1600s
How Loud
600
1.0
- Specialized
1
9.8
7
8.4
- Archaic
1
9.9
1
9.9
Surface Forms
Morphology
Etymology
Virginals (the small keyboard instrument) likely gets its name from the old word virgin, from virgo, which means 'maiden' or 'young woman'. A helpful way to remember this is that the instrument was often played by young women and has a pure, delicate sound, so the name links to 'virgin' and the idea of a light, simple tone.