A cittern is described by the Oxford English Dictionary as an instrument of the guitar kind, but strung with wire, and played with a plectrum or quill; much used in 16-17th c. Commonly kept in barbers' shops for the use of the customers. It had often a grotesquely-carved head .

Citterns were commonly used during the Renaissance period, as it was similar, but much less expensive and easier to carry around than the more costly lutes. The instrument was commonly used by everyone, but is associated more with the lower classes, because it was more attainable to them.