A harp is a large musical instrument with many strings that are plucked with the fingers. As a verb, to harp on something means to talk about it again and again in an annoying way.
From Old English “hearpe,” related to Germanic words for stringed instruments. The instrument is ancient and appears in many European traditions.
The phrase “harp on” probably comes from the idea of playing the same note or tune repeatedly. So when someone harps on a topic, it’s like they can’t stop plucking that same string in your ears.
In Western art and literature, the harp has often been associated with femininity and angelic or domestic imagery, while other instruments were coded more masculine. This contributed to gendered expectations about which instruments were 'appropriate' for women.
Use 'harpist' and related terms without assuming the player's gender, and avoid reinforcing stereotypes that certain instruments belong to one gender.
Recognize women harpists and composers as central, not peripheral, to the history of the instrument and to classical and folk music traditions.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.