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archlute

archlute

1 9.9
A large string instrument like a guitar with a long neck and extra low strings used in Baroque music
  • noun
  • /ˈɑrkˌluːt/
  • Specialized
: archiluto
  • The archlute is a beautiful instrument.

Examples

  • He spent years mastering the archlute to perform early music authentically.

  • An archlute can produce deep, resonant bass notes that enrich Baroque ensembles.

  • The musician played a beautiful piece on the archlute during the concert.

  • Many musicians enjoy playing the archlute.

  • The composer wrote a beautiful piece that featured the archlute for its rich, deep tones.

  • During the concert, the archlute was played alongside the violin, creating a harmonious blend of sounds.

  • He was fascinated by the unique sound produced by the archlute, which added depth to Baroque music.

Synonyms

lute
vsarchlute
15 8.6

A musical instrument with a pear-shaped body played by plucking strings

is larger with an extended neck and extra bass strings used in Baroque
theorbo
vsarchlute
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A large instrument with strings and a very long neck that musicians play for low notes in early music

has extra bass strings and an extended neck used mainly in Baroque music

How Low

theorbo
  • Specialized
1 9.9
archlute
  • Specialized
1 9.9
lute
15 8.6

Surface Forms

archlute singular
archlutes plural

Morphology

archlute = lute (semi-transparent) = arch + lute

The word is clearly a type of lute (so connection to 'lute' is clear), but the precise contribution of 'arch-' (what modification it signals) is specialized and not transparently predictable for average learners.

Etymology

The word archlute is made of arch and lute; arch means 'chief' or 'extra', like in archbishop, and lute is a plucked string instrument. So an archlute is a larger lute with a longer neck and extra bass strings, which gives it deep, rich sounds in Baroque music.