1. plural of fortepiano; early pianos from the 18th and early 19th centuries with a lighter touch and softer tone than modern pianos
Usage: musical instrument; historical

Examples

• The museum’s collection includes several authentic fortepianos from Mozart’s era.
• Many classical musicians prefer performing on fortepianos for historically informed performances.
• The concert featured works by Beethoven played on original fortepianos.
• Fortepianos have a more delicate sound than modern grand pianos.
• The music conservatory acquired two 18th-century fortepianos for student training.
• Period instrument ensembles often use fortepianos in their recordings.