Harp"si*chord (-kÙrd), n. [OF. harpechorde, in which the harpe is of
German origin. See Harp, and Chord.] (Mus.) A harp-shaped instrument of
music set horizontally on legs, like the grand piano, with strings of
wire, played by the fingers, by means of keys provided with quills,
instead of hammers, for striking the strings. It is now superseded by
the piano.
Har"py (h‰r"p), n.; pl. Harpies (-pz). [F. harpie, L. harpyia, Gr.
"a`rpyia, from the root of "arpa`zein to snatch, to seize. Cf.
Rapacious.] 1. (Gr. Myth.) A fabulous winged monster, ravenous and
filthy, having the face of a woman and the body of a vulture, with long
claws, and the face pale with hunger. Some writers mention two, others
three.
Both table and provisions vanished quite. With sound of harpies'
wings and talons heard.
Milton.