Guitar

Definition

Guitar is a noun that refers to a musical instrument with typically six strings, played by plucking or strumming. It is commonly used in a wide range of music genres and comes in acoustic, electric, and classical forms.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɪˈtɑr/
• Respelling: gih-TAR

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɡɪˈtɑː/
• Respelling: gih-TAH

Etymology

The word "guitar" originates from the Spanish "guitarra," which in turn is derived from the Arabic "qīthārah" and Greek "kithara." These terms refer to stringed musical instruments, with roots tracing back to ancient Mesopotamia.

Derivatives

• Guitarist (noun)
• Guitar-like (adjective)
• Guitaristic (adjective, rare)
• Guitar-playing (noun/adjective)
• Guitarism (noun, informal)

Synonyms

• String instrument
• Six-string
• Acoustic guitar (specific type)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "guitar" is used in both general and specific contexts, such as "He plays the guitar in a band" or "She prefers electric guitars for her performances." It also refers to the craft of playing the instrument, as in "Learning the guitar takes dedication."

Related Terms

• Strum: The action of brushing fingers across the strings of a guitar.
• Chord: A combination of notes played simultaneously on a guitar.
• Fretboard: The part of the guitar where fingers press to change pitch.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A stringed musical instrument with a fretted neck: Refers to the standard design of a guitar used in various musical styles.
  • Example: "The guitarist tuned his guitar before the concert."
• An acoustic or electric device for producing music: Describes specific types of guitars, such as acoustic, electric, or bass guitars.
  • Example: "The electric guitar produces a powerful sound when amplified."
• A symbolic representation of music and creativity: Refers to the cultural and artistic significance of the guitar.
  • Example: "The guitar is an iconic symbol of rock music."