piano action
/pɪˈanəʊ ˌakʃn/noun
The mechanism by which the impulse of the fingers upon the keys of a piano is communicated to the hammers which strike the strings.
- A typical piano action includes the key itself, a lever mechanism, a hammer, and a damper which rests on the string when the key is not depressed. The lever mechanism, which incorporates an escapement, propels the hammer against the string and allows it to rebound freely and instantaneously (in contrast to an instrument like the clavichord, in which the hammer remains in contact with the string for as long as the key is depressed)..
Origin
Mid 19th century. From piano + action.
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