resonator guitar

noun

plural resonator guitars

: an acoustic guitar that features a metal resonator which amplifies and modifies the tone

The resonator guitar was the first attempt to amplify a guitar in a pre-electronics era and it became the choice instrument for the traveling Bluesmen in the '30s and '40s because of its volume and rugged metal body.

—Music Trades

Historically, resonator guitars—which produce sound through spun metal cones as opposed to through the sounding board—have been mostly built using sheet metal or brass.

—Brian D'Ambrosio

called also resophonic guitar

Examples of resonator guitar in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The single showcases invigorating Latin rock rhythms paired with a Fender electric and a resonator guitar, creating a unique electric-twangy sound that clashes brilliantly with dynamic drumming. —Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 22 May 2024

Higgins oversaw the demo, with a resonator guitar delivering the rolling effect while a kick drum kept the pace moving by hitting every beat once the first chorus came in. —Tom Roland, Billboard, 8 Sep. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above