How did clarinet get its name?

The term "clarinet" is derived from the Latin word "clarus," which means "clear," and the suffix "-inet," which is a diminutive. The name was first used for the instrument in the early 18th century when the French instrument maker, Jean-Baptiste Denner, added a fifth key onto his version of the chalumeau which increased its range and sound. He referred to the newly developed instrument as the "clarinet" and the name has stuck ever since.