Definitions

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License.

  • noun A string instrument having a series of chord bars attached to dampers which mute all the strings other than those that form the desired chord

Etymologies

from Wiktionary, Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License

auto- +‎ harp

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Examples

  • The autoharp is the defining instrument here, and its slightly tinny tone creates an atmosphere that's not of this world.

    NPR Topics: News 2011

  • She eschews the growl and guitar that defined her previous decade, accompanying herself instead on piano and autoharp, and delivering her lines in a nerve-rattling high keen.

    Sinking Into the Sonic Ocean Andy Beta 2011

  • PJ's preferred instruments come and go – the autoharp is only the latest – but always conjure up a taut, ascetic soundscape from which her strikingly true tones rise.

    In Praise of … PJ Harvey | Editorial 2011

  • This time around she trades the piano for the autoharp, but the lyrics are as gloriously dark and oblique as ever.

    Shawn Amos: PLAY > SKIP: This Week's New Music Shawn Amos 2011

  • But folk legend Judy Collins said goodbye to eight guitars and one autoharp in style Thursday with a private performance at Christie's.

    Folk Legend Takes to the Auction Stage 2010

  • She chose an autoharp as the focal point for several songs.

    From Punk to Pacifism Jim Fusilli 2011

  • I play autoharp, so guitar tabs work just fine if I know the melody already ...

    Mexican children's songs 2009

  • I play autoharp, so guitar tabs work just fine if I know the melody already ...

    Mexican children's songs 2009

  • Citing a song on her 1995 album "To Bring You My Love," she said, "'Down by the Water' on autoharp sounds like an ancient folk song."

    From Punk to Pacifism Jim Fusilli 2011

  • I play autoharp, so guitar tabs work just fine if I know the melody already ...

    Mexican children's songs 2009

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