harp on one string
To dwell on a single subject with disagreeable or wearisome persistence.
harp
UK /hɑːp/ US /hɑɹp/
noun 5verb 4name 1
Definitions
noun
1
A musical instrument consisting of a body and a curved neck, strung with strings of varying length that are stroked or plucked with the fingers and are vertical to the soundboard when viewed from the end of the body
The Harpe. […] A harper with his wreſt maye tune the harpe wrong / Mys tunying of an Inſtrument ſhal hurt a true ſonge
2
A musical instrument consisting of a body and a curved neck, strung with strings of varying length that are stroked or plucked with the fingers and are vertical to the soundboard when viewed from the end of the body
3
Any musical instrument.
4
Any musical instrument.
5
A grain sieve.
verb
1
To repeatedly mention a subject, especially so as to nag or complain.
Why do you harp on a single small mistake?
Why do you harp on about a single small mistake?
2
To play on (a harp or similar instrument).
3
To play (a tune) on the harp.
4
To develop or give expression to by skill and art; to sound forth as from a harp; to hit upon.
Thou harped my fear aright.
name
1
A surname originating as an occupation for a player of the harp.
Your note
not saved0 chars