orgán

Orgán is a term used in several languages to denote the concept of an organ. Depending on the context, it can refer to a biological organ—an individual body part that carries out a specific function within an organism—or to the musical instrument known as the organ. In different orthographies, the diacritic on the final syllable reflects local spelling conventions, but the underlying meaning typically aligns with the English word organ.

In anatomy, an organ is a discrete structure composed of multiple tissue types that work together to perform one or more vital functions, such as digestion, circulation, or sensation. Organs are organized into organ systems, including the cardiovascular, digestive, nervous, and respiratory systems. They rely on networks of blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue to sustain their activity and maintain homeostasis.

In music, the organ is a large keyboard instrument that produces sound by directing pressurized air through pipes or through electronic means. It usually features one or more manuals (keyboards) and a pedalboard, along with stops that control timbre and dynamic range. Pipe organs have a long association with religious liturgy and ceremonial music, while electronic organs became popular in the 20th century as compact or portable alternatives.

Etymology: the word organ derives from Latin organum, related to Greek organon, meaning instrument or tool. The term has been incorporated into many languages with regional spellings and diacritical marks, including variants such as orgán in certain orthographies.

See also: Organ (disambiguation).