clāvīle
neuter
The piano was invented long after antiquity, so Latin has no ancient word for it. Modern Latin dictionaries use clāvīle, from clāvis, "key".
Some writers simply borrow pianoforte. Either is understood in modern Latin.
Meaning: a keyboard musical instrument (noun)
Which one should you use?
clāvicymbalum is the harpsichord, an older keyboard instrument whose strings are plucked, not struck.
How do you pronounce it?
klah-VEE-leh
Did you know?
- clāvis, "key", is also the source of the musical word "clef" and of "clavier", an old name for keyboard instruments.
Examples in context
- Clāvīle in ātriō stat.The piano stands in the hall.
- Soror mea clāvīle pulsat.My sister plays the piano.
