Definition

A musical instrument that is a type of woodwind, similar to an oboe, known for its distinct, rich sound.

Example

The orchestra featured a beautiful hautboy solo during the performance.

Conversation

I heard you played the hautboy in the school band.

Yeah, it's actually pretty fun to play.

I didn't know you could play the hautboy so well!

Thanks! I love how unique the sound is.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hautboy → The word originates from Old French *hautbois*, where "haut" means high and "bois" means wood. It refers to a high-pitched woodwind instrument, specifically an oboe.

Memory Tip

Think of 'high' ('haut') and 'wood' ('bois') to remember that a hautboy is a high-pitched wooden instrument.

Visually Confused Words