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psaltry

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈsɔːltri//

KK: /ˈsɔltri/

noun
Definition

A psaltry is a musical instrument that has strings stretched over a flat soundboard, played by plucking the strings with fingers or a plectrum.


Example

The musician played a beautiful melody on the psaltry during the concert.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen someone play a psaltry?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but it sounds interesting!
Sloth A
I saw a performance last week, and it was beautiful.
Sloth B
That sounds amazing! I'd love to hear one live.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lyre
harp
instrument
Antonyms
Root Explanation

**Psaltry** → The word 'psaltry' comes from the Latin 'psalterium', which is derived from the Greek 'psaltērion' (meaning a stringed musical instrument). The term refers to a musical instrument played by plucking strings, similar to a harp.

Memory Tip

Imagine a stringed instrument that you 'pluck' to create music — that's what a psaltry is, connecting the Greek 'psaltērion' to the idea of a musical instrument.

Visually Confused Words
paltry
saltery
saltary
salty
salutary
paltrily
palterly
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