Definition

Noun: 1. A small drum with one head of soft calfskin: A tabour is a historical percussion instrument, similar to a small drum or tabor, typically played with one hand while the other hand plays a pipe or flute.

Usage

The word "tabour" is a historical and somewhat archaic term. It is used to refer specifically to this type of drum, often in the context of medieval, Renaissance, or traditional folk music.

Examples

• The minstrel played a lively tune on his pipe while beating the tabour with his other hand.
• In the painting, a court musician is depicted holding a tabour.
• The sound of the tabour provided a rhythmic backbone for the dancers.

Advanced Usage

• "To play the tabour": This phrase describes the action of performing on this specific instrument.
  • She learned to play the tabour for the historical reenactment.

Variants and Related Words

• Tabor (noun): This is the more common modern spelling for the same instrument. "Tabour" is an older variant.
• Tabret (noun): Another historical term for a small drum or tabor, sometimes used interchangeably.

Synonyms

• Small drum
• Tabor (Note: This is essentially the same word with a different spelling.)
• Hand drum

Notes on Meaning

The term "tabour" refers exclusively to the musical instrument. It is not used in modern contexts outside of historical, musical, or literary descriptions. Its primary distinguishing feature is its use as a one-handed drum, often paired with a wind instrument.

Noun

1. a small drum with one head of soft calfskin