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kantele

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈkæn.tə.leɪ//

KK: /kænˈteɪl/

noun
Definition

A traditional musical instrument that is played by plucking strings, similar to a zither, and is often associated with Finnish culture.


Example

She played a beautiful melody on her kantele during the festival.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of a kantele?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! What is it?
Sloth A
It's a traditional Finnish string instrument, kind of like a zither.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I'd love to hear one played.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
zither
harp
lyre
Antonyms
Root Explanation

The word 'kantele' originates from Finnish, referring to a traditional stringed musical instrument. It is derived from the Finnish word 'kantele', which describes this specific type of instrument used in folk music.

Memory Tip

Imagine a traditional Finnish musician playing a stringed instrument called a 'kantele' — this helps you remember that 'kantele' refers to that specific musical instrument.

Visually Confused Words
anele
mantelet
antelude
antelope
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