Meaning & Definition
noun
A musical instrument consisting of a hollow bag that holds air, with pipes through which the player can produce sound, typically associated with Scottish music.
He played the bagpipe at the wedding, filling the air with traditional Scottish melodies.
The sound produced by a bagpipe.
The haunting bagpipe echoed through the hills during the festival.
Etymology
Middle English 'baggepipe', from 'bag' + 'pipe'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
blow the bagpipes:
To play the bagpipes, usually at a ceremonial occasion.
pipe up:
To begin to play or speak, often suddenly.
a bagpipe player:
Someone skilled in playing the bagpipes.
Slang Meanings
To play out of tune
He played the bagpipe so badly it sounded like a cat in a bag.
To cause a chaotic or noisy situation
The party turned into a bagpipe when everyone started shouting over each other.