1. n. (pl. -os) a large musical instrument played by pressing down keys on a keyboard and causing hammers to strike metal strings, the vibration from which is stopped by dampers when the keys are released.
Phrases and idioms:
piano-accordion an accordion with the melody played on a small vertical keyboard like that of a piano. piano organ a mechanical piano constructed like a barrel-organ. piano-player
1. a pianist.
2 a contrivance for playing a piano automatically.
Etymology: It., abbr. of PIANOFORTE 2. adj., adv., & n.
--adj.
1. Mus. performed softly.
2 subdued.
--adv.
1. Mus. softly.
2 in a subdued manner.
--n. (pl. -os or piani) Mus. a piano passage .
Etymology: It. f. L planus flat, (of sound) soft