Definition

Noun: A plectron is a small, thin, typically flat tool used to pluck or strum the strings of certain stringed instruments. It is commonly made from materials such as plastic, metal, or tortoiseshell (historically ivory).

Examples of Usage

• He lost his favorite plectron and had to use a coin to play the guitar.
• The musician kept a collection of different plectrons for varying tones on her mandolin.
• For a softer sound, she prefers a felt plectron on her zither.

Advanced Usage

• Technical Context: In discussions of historical or classical music performance, "plectron" may be used to refer specifically to the plectra used for instruments like the harpsichord (where it is part of the jack mechanism) or the ancient lyre.
  • The restoration involved replacing the damaged ivory plectra in the harpsichord's jacks.

Variants and Related Words

• Plectrum: This is the more common and standard term, completely synonymous with "plectron." "Plectron" is a less frequent variant.
• Pick: This is the most common informal term, especially in the context of modern guitar playing (e.g., guitar pick).

Synonyms

• Pick
• Plectrum

Related Idioms or Phrases

• (To be) as thin as a plectron: An informal simile to describe something very slim or flat.
  • After his illness, he was as thin as a plectron.

Noun

1. a small thin device (of metal or plastic or ivory) used to pluck a stringed instrument