lyre
UK[ˈlaɪə(r)]US[ˈlaɪər]
n
a stringed instrument of the harp family, used especially in ancient greece.
Etymology
the word 'lyre' entered english in the 13th century via old french 'lire' and latin 'lyra', from its ancient greek source 'λύρα' (lyra). the greek term referred specifically to the stringed instrument, a central symbol of poetry and music in antiquity. while the ultimate origin is uncertain, it is possibly a loanword from a non-indo-european source, such as lydia in asia minor. the word's journey into english reflects the direct cultural borrowing of both the object and its name from classical civilization, retaining its core meaning unchanged for centuries.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword. it is a direct borrowing from the latin word 'lyra', which itself came from the greek 'λύρα' (lyra). its functional role is as a single, unanalyzable noun in modern english.
Examples
in ancient greek art, apollo is often depicted holding a lyre.
the poet strummed the lyre to accompany his epic verses.
the museum's collection includes a beautifully preserved lyre from the classical period.