Angelique

/ˌæn.dʒəˈliːk/ noun, adjective

Definition

A stringed musical instrument similar to a zither or harp; or (as adjective) heavenly or angelic in quality.

Etymology

From French 'angélique,' derived from Greek 'angelikos' (of angels). The instrument was named for its light, ethereal sound thought to resemble angels, popular in Renaissance and Baroque music.

Kelly Says

The angelique is a nearly-forgotten instrument—Jean-Claude Mompellio documented that it flourished in 16th-century courts but nearly disappeared. Interestingly, most angeliques now are luthier reconstructions, showing how the name 'angelic' (for its beautiful sound) outlasted the actual instrument.

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