tambourine
word
Definition
A tambourine is a musical instrument shaped like a small frame drum, often with jingling metal discs (called jingles) around the edge. It is shaken or hit with the hand to make rhythmic sounds.
Usage & Nuances
Used in folk, pop, and classical music around the world. Common with hand percussion, often in church, school, or dance music. Not to be confused with a drum (no jingles) or a maraca (shaken, enclosed). Often called 'play the tambourine.'
Example Sentences
She played the tambourine in the school band.
basic
Can you show me how to play the tambourine?
basic
Whenever that song plays, I can't help but clap along and pretend to have a tambourine.
natural
A tambourine has small metal jingles around its edge.
basic
He grabbed a tambourine and joined the rhythm of the drums.
natural
The dancers wore bells and shook their tambourines as they performed.
natural