Clairseach

/ˈklɛərʃɑːx/ noun

Definition

A Scottish or Irish harp, particularly the traditional Celtic stringed instrument with multiple strings.

Etymology

From Scottish Gaelic clàrsach or Irish Gaelic cláirseach, derived from Old Irish cláir 'board' + seach (possibly related to 'six' or a musical term). The word entered English texts documenting Celtic culture.

Kelly Says

The clàrsach is so historically important to Scottish identity that its name has survived despite the decline of Gaelic—it appears on the Scottish coat of arms, making it one of the few Gaelic musical terms that modern English speakers might recognize.

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