Learn More

The word for this popular stringed instrument boasts a fascinating linguistic journey. Our English term was adopted from the Spanish "guitarra," which in turn has roots in the Andalusian Arabic "qīthārah" and the Latin "cithara." Ultimately, its lineage can be traced back to the Ancient Greek "kithara," a triangular seven-stringed instrument that shares a connection with the lyre. Some even suggest the word "kithara" might have an even older origin in the Persian word "sihtar," showcasing a rich tapestry of cultural exchange in its very name.
The instrument itself also has an ancient history, with early guitar-like instruments appearing in various forms across different civilizations for thousands of years. Researchers have found evidence of these stringed instruments in Ancient Egypt around 1450 BC, long before the modern six-string design we recognize today. The classical guitar, with its familiar shape and six strings, saw its design largely finalized in the mid-1800s. It's also fun to note that many parts of the instrument are named after human anatomy, such as the head, neck, and body. From humble beginnings with strings made of animal intestines, to today's nylon and steel varieties, this versatile instrument continues to captivate musicians and listeners across the globe.
Related Puzzles
Hidden Word: Each person at a table received a menu card.
Find the hidden word
Each person at a table received a menu card.
Hidden Word: We had to stop erasing and start writing the draft.
Find the hidden word
We had to stop erasing and start writing the draft.