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shenai

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʃəˈnaɪ/

KK: /ʃəˈnaɪ/

noun
Definition

A traditional woodwind instrument that has a long, narrow body and a round sound bowl, often used in Indian music.


Example

The musician played a beautiful melody on the shenai during the wedding ceremony.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen someone play the shenai?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! What kind of instrument is it?
Sloth A
It's a beautiful woodwind instrument with a long body and a unique sound.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I would love to hear it played live.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
oboe
bassoon
clarinet
Antonyms
Root Explanation

The word 'shenai' originates from the Hindi word 'शहनाई' (shahnai), which refers to a type of double-reed musical instrument commonly used in Indian weddings and celebrations. The term is derived from Persian 'شهنواز' (shahnawaz), meaning 'royal musician'.

Memory Tip

Imagine a 'royal musician' playing a beautiful instrument at a wedding — that's what a shenai represents in Indian culture.

Visually Confused Words
shea
shai
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