The term TYPE OF LUTE can be answered by two crossword solutions: SITAR (5 letters) and MANDOLIN (8 letters). A SITAR is a stringed instrument originating from India, with a long neck and a gourd-shaped body. It is typically used in Hindustani classical music and is played by plucking the strings with a mizrab. A mandolin is a stringed instrument of Italian origin, with a pear-shaped body and a fretted neck. It is usually used in folk music and is played by plucking or strumming the strings with a plectrum.