Advertisement - Continue reading below

Definition of "nyckelharpa" [nyckelharpa]

  • A stringed instrument once used in Sweden, essentially similar to the hurdy-gurdy, but sounded with a bow instead of a wheel. It had 4 principal strings of gut, 2 of which were drones, 8 sympathetic strings of metal, and 19 keys or tangents. (noun)

The Century Dictionary (Public Domain)

Use "nyckelharpa" in a sentence
  • "The nyckelharpa is a unique instrument, and it's interesting to hear how you've incorporated it into your sound."
  • "While Johansson described the nyckelharpa, which is essentially a Swedish 16-stinged keyed fiddle played with a bow, as "a portable, disposable barbeque rack," it was clear that his mastery of this unique instrument helped to fuel the musical vehicle that Marshall and Anger have worked so hard to fine tune."
  • "A wild Recercada by Diego Ortiz finishes off this exciting set, which is complimented by a rich palette of instrumental color from delightful instruments like the Swedish stringed instrument called the nyckelharpa, the vihuela de mano, which is a Spanish lute, and the sprightly sound of an organ."