harp
UK: hɑːp | US: hɑːrp
n. a musical instrument with strings stretched across a triangular frame, played by plucking with the fingers
v. to dwell on a subject persistently or tediously
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The word "harp" traces back to Old English hearpe, derived from Proto-Germanic harpǭ, which referred to the stringed instrument. Its deeper roots likely connect to Proto-Indo-European kerp- ("to pluck" or "to curve"), reflecting the instrument's plucked strings and arched shape. The verb form ("to harp on") emerged metaphorically in the 16th century, likening repetitive speech to the repetitive plucking of harp strings.
She played a haunting melody on the harp.
The Celtic harp is a symbol of Irish culture.
He kept harping on about his achievements.
The orchestra included two harps in the performance.
Stop harping on minor details—focus on the bigger picture.