The term MANDOLIN KIN refers to four stringed instruments: the SITAR (5 letters), uke (3 letters), LUTE (4 letters), and lutes (5 letters). The SITAR is a plucked string instrument originating from India, and is typically used in Hindustani classical music. The uke is a small guitar-like instrument originating from Hawaii, and is commonly used in Hawaiian music. The LUTE is a plucked string instrument originating from Europe, and is commonly used in European classical music. Lastly, lutes are a family of string instruments that have been used in many different cultures throughout history.