Spinet

Pronunciation: /ˈspaɪ.nɪt/

Definitions of spinet

noun a type of musical instrument that is a smaller version of a harpsichord

Example Sentences

A1 I saw a small spinet piano in the music store.

A2 She played a beautiful melody on the spinet at the recital.

B1 The spinet was a popular instrument in households during the Baroque period.

B2 The spinet's delicate sound added a unique charm to the orchestra's performance.

C1 The intricate craftsmanship of the spinet showcased the artisan's skill.

C2 The spinet's historical significance in early keyboard music cannot be understated.

Examples of spinet in a Sentence

formal The spinet is a type of small upright piano that was popular in the 18th century.

informal I love the sound of a spinet, it's so charming and unique.

slang My grandma's spinet is a real gem, it's been in the family for generations.

figurative The spinet of her voice filled the room with warmth and nostalgia.

Grammatical Forms of spinet

• past tense: spinetted
• plural: spinets
• comparative: more spinet
• superlative: most spinet
• present tense: spinets
• future tense: will spinet
• perfect tense: have spinetted
• continuous tense: is spinetting
• singular: spinet
• positive degree: spinet
• infinitive: to spinet
• gerund: spinetting
• participle: spinetted

Origin and Evolution of spinet

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Italian

Story behind the word: The word 'spinet' is derived from the Italian word 'spinetta', which means 'small spine' or 'thorn', referring to the quill plectra used to pluck the strings.

Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a small type of harpsichord, the term 'spinet' later evolved to refer to a smaller upright piano with a similar mechanism. Today, 'spinet' is commonly used to describe any small, compact keyboard instrument.