hurdy-gurdy

noun

hur·​dy-gur·​dy ˌhər-dē-ˈgər-dē How to pronounce hurdy-gurdy (audio)
ˈhər-dē-ˌgər-
plural hurdy-gurdies
1
: a stringed instrument in which sound is produced by the friction of a rosined wheel turned by a crank against the strings and the pitches are varied by keys
2
: any of various mechanical musical instruments (such as the barrel organ)

Illustration of hurdy-gurdy

Illustration of hurdy-gurdy
  • hurdy-gurdy 1

Word History

Etymology

probably imitative

First Known Use

1745, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of hurdy-gurdy was in 1745

Dictionary Entries Near hurdy-gurdy

Cite this Entry

“Hurdy-gurdy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hurdy-gurdy. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

hurdy-gurdy

noun
hur·​dy-gur·​dy
ˌhərd-ē-ˈgərd-ē
plural hurdy-gurdies
: a musical instrument in which the sound is produced by turning a crank
especially : barrel organ

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