What is another word for virginals?

Pronunciation: [vɜːd͡ʒˈa͡ɪnə͡lz] (IPA)

Virginals is a term used to describe a type of keyboard instrument dating back to the Renaissance period. Synonyms for virginals include harpsichord, clavichord, and spinet. Each of these instruments differs slightly in design, but all share the characteristic of plucking a string when a key is pressed, as opposed to striking a string like a piano. Harpsichords are the most popular of these synonyms and still used extensively in classical music. Clavichords are quieter and more delicate in sound and were popular during the Baroque period. Spinets are smaller and more portable than harpsichords and were popular in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Usage examples for Virginals

It was in vain for the Lord Oxford of the day, sneering at Raleigh's sudden elevation, to complain that as on the virginals, so in the State, "Jacks went up, and heads went down."
"The Ancien Regime"
Charles Kingsley
Of course it is understood that both types of virginals as well as the spinet and the harpsichord were keyed chordophones employing the plucking action of jacks and plectra.
"Italian Harpsichord-Building in the 16th and 17th Centuries"
John D. Shortridge
Queen Elizabeth, also, amused herself not only with the lute, the virginals, and her voice, but also with the violin.
"Famous Violinists of To-day and Yesterday"
Henry C. Lahee

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