stradivari: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Specialized
Quick answer
What does “stradivari” mean?
A string instrument, typically a violin, viola, or cello, made by Antonio Stradivari or his workshop in the 17th–18th centuries.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A string instrument, typically a violin, viola, or cello, made by Antonio Stradivari or his workshop in the 17th–18th centuries.
An extremely high-quality, rare, or valuable violin or other string instrument, often used as a benchmark of excellence; by extension, anything considered the pinnacle of craftsmanship or quality in its field.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Both varieties use the term identically within specialist and educated contexts.
Connotations
Identical connotations of supreme craftsmanship, antiquity, rarity, and immense monetary and cultural value.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, confined to discussions of classical music, fine instruments, auctions, and metaphors for excellence.
Grammar
How to Use “stradivari” in a Sentence
[Subject] owns/plays/auctions a Stradivari.[Pre-modifier] Stradivari [Noun] (e.g., violin).[Subject] is the [Stradivari] of [Domain] (metaphorical).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “stradivari” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- (No standard verb usage.)
American English
- (No standard verb usage.)
adverb
British English
- (No standard adverb usage.)
American English
- (No standard adverb usage.)
adjective
British English
- The auction featured several Stradivari instruments.
- He possesses Stradivari-level skill in craftsmanship.
American English
- It was a Stradivari-quality performance.
- The collection included a rare Stradivari viola.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
In auction house listings, insurance valuations, and high-end asset management. 'The Stradivari achieved a record price at Sotheby's.'
Academic
In musicology, instrument history, and material culture studies. 'The varnish composition of late-period Stradivari instruments remains a subject of study.'
Everyday
Rare. Used metaphorically or in general knowledge. 'This chef's knife is the Stradivari of kitchen tools.'
Technical
In lutherie (violin making), acoustics, and conservation science. 'The bass-bar of this Stradivari was replaced in the 19th century.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “stradivari”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “stradivari”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “stradivari”
- Using lowercase ('a stradivari') in formal writing.
- Incorrect pluralization ('Stradivaries').
- Overextending the metaphor to inappropriate, low-quality comparisons.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It primarily refers to a violin, viola, or cello made by the Italian craftsman Antonio Stradivari (1644–1737). It symbolises the highest level of craftsmanship and value.
Essentially, yes. 'Stradivarius' is the Latinized form commonly used in English. 'Stradivari' is the Italian surname. They are used interchangeably, though 'Stradivarius' is slightly more common.
It is estimated that around 650 Stradivari instruments survive, mostly violins. Their exact number is unknown due to losses, forgeries, and authentication debates.
Their value stems from their rarity, historical significance, legendary reputation for superior sound quality (a mix of myth and acoustical properties), and the unparalleled craftsmanship of Stradivari's workshop during its golden period.
A string instrument, typically a violin, viola, or cello, made by Antonio Stradivari or his workshop in the 17th–18th centuries.
Stradivari is usually formal, specialized in register.
Stradivari: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstrædɪˈvɑːri/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstrædəˈvɑri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[To be] the Stradivari of [something] (e.g., 'He is the Stradivari of watchmaking').”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a STRAD of ivy (Stradivari) growing over a beautifully crafted, ancient violin case.
Conceptual Metaphor
A Stradivari is the GOLD STANDARD / PINNACLE / MASTERPIECE of its category.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'Stradivari' most precisely and literally used?