Hornpipe/ˈhɔːrnpaɪp/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Historical Instrument Understand 'hornpipe' as an old musical instrument, not common today. A hornpipe could be found in historical music collections. Pro Tip 2/3Cultural Depiction Historically, hornpipes are depicted in folklore and sea shanties. He drew a sailor holding a hornpipe in the maritime museum exhibit. Pro Tip 3/3Distinct Sound The hornpipe produces a unique sound, different from modern flutes. The echoing hornpipe carried a rustic tune through the halls.