harp

[ hahrp ]
/ hɑrp /

noun

verb (used without object)

to play on a harp.

Verb Phrases

harp on/upon, to dwell on persistently or tediously in speaking or writing: He was always harping on the importance of taking vitamin supplements.

Origin of harp

before 900; Middle English harpe, Old English hearpe; cognate with Dutch harp, German Harfe, Old Norse harpa

OTHER WORDS FROM harp

harp·like, adjective un·harped, adjective

British Dictionary definitions for harp on

harp
/ (hɑːp) /

noun

a large triangular plucked stringed instrument consisting of a soundboard connected to an upright pillar by means of a curved crossbar from which the strings extend downwards. The strings are tuned diatonically and may be raised in pitch either one or two semitones by the use of pedals (double-action harp). Basic key: B major; range: nearly seven octaves
something resembling this, esp in shape
an informal name (esp in pop music) for harmonica

verb

(intr) to play the harp
(tr) archaic to speak; utter; express
(intr; foll by on or upon) to speak or write in a persistent and tedious manner

Derived forms of harp

harper or harpist, noun

Word Origin for harp

Old English hearpe; related to Old Norse harpa, Old High German harfa, Latin corbis basket, Russian korobit to warp

Cultural definitions for harp on

harp

An instrument in the string section of the orchestra. The orchestral harp is several feet tall and has pedals that allow the harpist to change the key of the instrument as necessary.

Idioms and Phrases with harp on

harp on

Dwell on; talk or write about to a tedious and excessive extent. For example, She kept harping on the fact that she had no household help at all. This expression is a shortening of harp on the same string, meaning “to play the same note over and over.” It was first recorded in 1518.