Definition of fife

The word "fife" comes from the Old English phrase "plyggian fiffe," which literally translates to "to play the fifteenth part." This name originated during the Middle Ages when the fife was originally a wind instrument, often made out of wood or bones, with a narrow, squarish mouthpiece and a single finger hole. It was used as a signaling and marching instrument in military bands, as well as for accompanying dancers in social gatherings. In the 1300s, fifes were typically played in groups of fifteen, each band having its own leader, commonly referred to as the "fifing master." It was this practice that influenced the term "fife," which came to refer specifically to the instrument and also to the melodic part played by it. The fife, which initially looked quite different from the small, descant instrument we know today, underwent a significant evolution during the Renaissance. While the earlier fifes were made with an oboe-like reed, designers began creating instruments with a keyed fingerboard, creating a richer and louder sound. In modern times, the fife is a small, simple wind instrument that is typically used in traditional folk, Scottish, and Irish music productions, as well as in marching bands and in military contexts. The origin of the word "fife" continues to inspire interest and curiosity among music historians and language enthusiasts alike.