multistringed

Multistringed is an adjective used to describe objects, especially musical instruments, that have more than one string. The term emphasizes multiple strings as a defining characteristic, enabling a wider pitch range and timbral variety compared with instruments with a single string or fewer strings. Etymology: formed from multi- meaning many and stringed, the word has been used in English to describe instruments since at least the 19th century.

In music, multistringed instruments include common modern guitars (six strings), as well as traditional instruments with many strings such as the sitar, kora, koto, guqin, and harp. Some multistringed instruments use sympathetic or drone strings in addition to the main playing strings, which increases resonance and complexity. The exact number and arrangement of strings are shaped by cultural tradition and the instrument’s musical goals. The twelve-string guitar is a widely cited example, producing a richer, chorus-like effect.

Beyond music, the term may appear in other contexts where multiple strings are involved, though it is most often used in describing stringed instruments. In practice, multistringed design affects technique, tuning, and maintenance, since more strings require additional considerations for playability and stability.

See also: string instrument, chordophone, guitar, sitar, kora, harp, zither.