tin-whistle
Definition
- Noun:
- A simple musical instrument: "tin-whistle" refers to a small, high-pitched wind instrument, typically made of metal (often tin) or plastic, with six finger holes. It is commonly used in folk music, especially Irish traditional music.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- She learned to play the tin-whistle for the school's folk music club. (A simple wind instrument used in traditional music.)
- The musician carried a tin-whistle in his pocket to play melodies at gatherings. (A portable, high-pitched instrument.)
Advanced Usage
"to play the tin-whistle": to perform music on this instrument.
- He can play the tin-whistle with great speed and clarity. (He performs on the instrument skillfully.)
"tin-whistle tune": a melody specifically composed or adapted for this instrument.
- The session ended with a lively tin-whistle tune. (A cheerful melody played on the instrument.)
Variants and Related Words
Pennywhistle (n): another common name for the same instrument, often used interchangeably.
- She bought a pennywhistle at the music shop. (A synonym for tin-whistle.)
Whistle (n): a broader term for any wind instrument that produces sound by forcing air through a narrow opening; the tin-whistle is a specific type.
- The whistle sounded loudly across the field. (A general term for a sound-making device.)
Synonyms
- Pennywhistle: the most common synonym, especially in folk music contexts.
- Irish whistle: a specific regional term, emphasizing its use in Irish traditional music.
Phrasal Verbs
- (No common phrasal verbs directly associated with "tin-whistle"; it is primarily used as a noun.)
Related Idioms
- (No common idioms directly associated with "tin-whistle"; it is a specific instrument name.)