The aulos is an ancient Greek wind instrument that was widely popular during the classical period. It was a double-reed instrument that was played by blowing into it, and it had a unique sound that was used in a variety of musical settings. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of aulos, its origin, and its significance in different contexts.
Definitions
The aulos is a musical instrument that is characterized by its double reed and its distinctive sound. It is similar to the modern oboe or bassoon, but it has a much louder and more penetrating sound. The instrument was typically made of wood, and it was played by blowing into one of the two reeds, which would vibrate and produce sound.
Origin
The aulos has its roots in ancient Greece, where it was a popular instrument in both secular and religious contexts. It was used in a variety of musical genres, including folk music, theater, and religious ceremonies. The instrument was also popular in ancient Rome, where it was used in military parades and other public events.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the aulos is “a double-reed wind instrument of ancient Greece, typically played in pairs and used in religious ceremonies and theatrical performances.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “a double-reed instrument of ancient Greece consisting of two tubes of cane or reed played simultaneously.” The Cambridge Dictionary describes it as “a musical instrument with two tubes that you play by blowing into them at the same time.”
Associations
The aulos is associated with ancient Greek culture and is often depicted in art and literature from that time period. It was also associated with religious ceremonies and theatrical performances, where it was used to create dramatic and emotional effects.
Synonyms
Synonyms for aulos include the ancient Greek terms “auloi” and “tibiae,” as well as the modern terms “double reed instrument” and “wind instrument.”
Antonyms
Antonyms for aulos might include “string instrument” or “percussion instrument,” which are different types of musical instruments that produce sound in different ways.
The same root words
The word “aulos” comes from the ancient Greek word “auloi,” which means “pipes” or “flutes.” This root word is also found in the modern Greek word for “flute,” which is “aerofono.”
Example Sentences
- The aulos was a popular instrument in ancient Greece and was used in a variety of musical contexts.
- The sound of the aulos was loud and penetrating, making it ideal for use in outdoor settings.
- The aulos was often played in pairs, with one musician playing a high-pitched melody and the other playing a lower-pitched harmony.
- The aulos was an important instrument in religious ceremonies, where it was used to create a sense of awe and reverence.
- The aulos was also used in theatrical performances, where it was used to create dramatic and emotional effects.