Definition

1. Noun:
   • A small historical harpsichord: A spinet is a type of early keyboard instrument, a smaller and simpler version of a harpsichord, typically having only one string for each musical note.
   • A compact upright piano: A spinet can also refer to a specific, small style of upright piano, popular in the 20th century, known for its compact and space-saving design.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The museum's collection includes a beautifully restored 17th-century spinet.
  • She learned to play on an old spinet that her grandmother owned.

Advanced Usage

• Historical context: The term "spinet" is often used in discussions of early music and historical performance practice to distinguish it from larger harpsichords and virginals.
  • The piece was composed specifically for the delicate sound of the spinet.

Variants and Related Words

• Harpsichord (n): A larger keyboard instrument from the same family, typically with more than one string per note and often multiple sets of strings (choirs).
• Virginal (n): Another type of small, rectangular harpsichord, often placed on a table, popular in the Renaissance.

Synonyms

• Harpsichord (though a harpsichord is generally larger and more complex).
• Upright piano (specifically for the modern piano meaning; a "spinet piano" is a subtype).

Related Phrases

• Spinet desk: A style of writing desk that resembles the compact form of a spinet piano.
• Spinet organ: A small, compact pipe organ or electronic organ built in a similar style.

Noun

1. early model harpsichord with only one string per note
2. a small and compactly built upright piano