How Do You Spell OPHICLEIDE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒfɪklˌe͡ɪd] (IPA)

The word "Ophicleide" is a musical instrument that was widely used during the 19th century in classical orchestras. Its pronunciation is /ɒfɪkliːd/ which is represented phonetically as 'ah-fih-kleed'. The word originates from the Greek words "ophis" meaning serpent and "kleis" meaning key. The spelling of the word 'Ophicleide' can be tricky, as there are several letters that are not pronounced. However, by using the IPA transcription, one can easily understand the correct way to pronounce this unique and significant instrument.

OPHICLEIDE Meaning and Definition

1. The ophicleide is a musical instrument that belongs to the brass family. It is a large, conical-bore instrument with keys, similar to a keyed bugle or a tuba. Originally developed in the early 19th century, it was widely used in military bands and orchestras until the late 19th century when it started to be replaced by the tuba.

   The word "ophicleide" derives from the Greek words "ophis," meaning serpent or snake, and "kleis," meaning key. This is reflective of its appearance, as it features a serpentine-like shape with keys attached to control the pitch. Typically made of brass, the ophicleide has a cylindrical or conical bore, widening towards the bell.

   With a wide range and rich tonal qualities, the ophicleide is capable of producing deep, resonant sounds. It is played by blowing air through a cup-shaped mouthpiece, similar to other brass instruments, and manipulating the keys to change the pitch. The sound produced by the ophicleide is powerful and often described as a cross between a trombone and a tuba.

   Today, the ophicleide is seen as a rare and unique instrument, primarily featured in historical reenactments, period ensembles, or certain specialized orchestral performances. Its distinctive appearance and sound make it a fascinating instrument to study and appreciate in the context of musical history.

2. The largest keyed, musical, wind instrument of brass or copper, made somewhat in the form of a serpent.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for OPHICLEIDE

• iphicleide
• kphicleide
• lphicleide
• pphicleide
• 0phicleide
• 9phicleide
• oohicleide
• olhicleide
• o-hicleide
• o0hicleide
• opgicleide
• opbicleide
• opnicleide
• opjicleide
• opuicleide
• opyicleide
• ophucleide
• ophjcleide
• ophkcleide
• ophocleide
• ophiclide
• ophiclede
• ohpicleide
• ophicliede
• Ophiclde
• Ophicledea

Etymology of OPHICLEIDE

The word "Ophicleide" has its origin in Greek. It comes from the Greek words "ophis" meaning "serpent" and "kleis" meaning "key". The instrument itself resembles a large brass serpentine shape with keys, hence the name "Ophicleide". The Ophicleide is a large and powerful brass instrument that was popular in the 19th century, and it is considered an ancestor of the modern tuba.

Plural form of OPHICLEIDE is OPHICLEIDES