'harpsichord' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'arpicordo', where 'arpa' meant 'harp' and 'corda' meant 'string'.

'arpicordo' transformed into the French word 'harpechorde', and eventually became the modern English word 'harpsichord'.

Initially, it meant 'a stringed instrument resembling a harp', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a keyboard instrument with plucked strings'.