Langimage
English

organ

|or/gan|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈɔrɡən/

🇬🇧

/ˈɔːɡən/

instrument or tool

Etymology
Etymology Information

'organ' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'organum,' where 'organon' meant 'instrument or tool.'

Historical Evolution

'organum' transformed into the Old French word 'organe,' and eventually became the modern English word 'organ' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'instrument or tool,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'body part' and 'musical instrument.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a part of an organism that is typically self-contained and has a specific vital function, such as the heart or liver in humans.

The heart is a vital organ in the human body.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a large musical instrument having rows of tuned pipes sounded by compressed air, and played using one or more keyboards.

The church organ filled the hall with beautiful music.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35