Answer
The mandolin is a stringed instrument with a distinctive teardrop-shaped body. It is a member of the lute family, which also includes the guitar, banjo, and violin. The mandolin is typically played with a plectrum or pick, and has a bright, twangy sound. It is often used in folk, bluegrass, and country music, and is popular in many parts of the world, including the United States, Europe, and Asia.