Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Definition: The 萧 (xiāo) is a traditional Chinese musical instrument that belongs to the woodwind family. It consists of a vertical bamboo tube with finger holes and produces a soothing and melodious sound.
Related terms
- 洞箫 (dòngxiāo): A type of 萧 (xiāo) that has an additional hole at the bottom, allowing for more complex melodies.
- 笛膜 (dí mó): The membrane or film used to cover the open end of the 萧 (xiāo), which affects its tone and resonance.
- 管乐器 (guǎn yuèqì): A general term for all wind instruments, including the 萧 (xiāo), flute, clarinet, etc.