Stradivarius

See also: stradivarius

English

Etymology

Named after the Stradivari family (Latin Stradivarius), an Italian surname either from the plural of Lombard stradivare (toll-man), or from strada averta (open road) in the Cremonese dialect.

Pronunciation

  • (UK) IPA(key): /ˌstɹadɪˈvɛəɹɪ.əs/
  • (US) IPA(key): /ˌstɹædəˈvɛɹi.əs/
  • Rhymes: -ɛəɹiəs

Noun

Stradivarius (plural Stradivariuses or Stradivarii)

  1. (music) A stringed instrument built by members of the Stradivari family, particularly Antonio Stradivari.
  2. (music) A violin made by another manufacturer, named to capitalise on the fame of the instruments made by Antonio Stradivari.
    Synonym: Strad (informal)
  3. (figuratively) A name invoked as a standard of excellence in unrelated fields.
    A Bath boat is the Stradivarius of destroyers!

Translations

Further reading

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