Definition

1. Noun:
   • An organ stop resulting in a soft muted sound: In pipe organs, a "sourdine" is a specific stop that produces a soft, subdued, or muted tone.
   • A mute for a violin: A "sourdine" is a device attached to a violin or other string instrument to dampen its sound, making it quieter and softer.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The organist engaged the sourdine to create a more solemn atmosphere.
  • The violinist attached a sourdine to the bridge for the quiet passage.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Technical Context: The term "sourdine" is used primarily in historical, technical, or specific musical contexts, particularly concerning classical music and instrument construction. It is less common in everyday language.
  • The score indicated the use of a sourdine for the entire movement.

Variants and Related Words

• Sordino (n): The Italian term, often used interchangeably with "sourdine," especially in musical instructions like (with mute) or (without mute).
• Mute (n): A more general and common term for a device used to soften the sound of a musical instrument.

Synonyms

• Mute: A device for softening the sound of an instrument.
• Damper: A device that deadens or muffles sound.

Related Phrases

• Con sordino (Italian musical instruction): An instruction to play with a mute (sourdine).
  • The section is marked "con sordino."
• Senza sordino (Italian musical instruction): An instruction to play without a mute.
  • Play the finale "senza sordino."

Noun

1. an organ stop resulting in a soft muted sound
2. a mute for a violin