tuning-fork

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tuning-fork. 2-pronged metal instr., invented 1711 by the trumpeter John Shore (b c.1662; d London, 1752; noted for his playing of Purcell and Handel). When set in vibration, it produces a sound wherewith to check the pitch of instr. and to give the pitch to singers. Gives a ‘pure’ tone, without upper harmonics.