Definition

Noun A percussion instrument consisting of a shallow, circular wooden or plastic frame with a single drumhead (often made of plastic or animal skin) stretched over one side. Small metal jingles called "zils" are mounted in slots around the frame. It is played by shaking, striking, or tapping it with the hand.

Usage

The tambourine is used to provide rhythmic accompaniment in various musical genres, including folk, pop, rock, and classical music. It is typically held in one hand and played by the other.

Examples

• The percussionist added a bright, shimmering rhythm with the tambourine.
• She shook the tambourine in time with the music.
• The song's intro features a distinctive tambourine beat.

Advanced Usage

• To play the tambourine: This is the standard phrase for performing with the instrument.
  • He learned to play the tambourine for the band.
• In musical notation, specific techniques like a shake, thumb roll, or strike may be indicated for the tambourine part.

Variants and Related Words

• Tambourinist (noun): A person who plays the tambourine, though this term is less common than "percussionist."
• Frame drum: A general category of drums that includes the tambourine (a frame drum with jingles).
• Jingle: A term sometimes used for the individual metal discs on a tambourine, though "zil" is more precise.

Synonyms

• Percussion instrument: This is the general category.
• There is no direct single-word synonym for "tambourine."

Related Phrases

• Tambourine shake: A continuous, back-and-forth motion to produce a sustained jingling sound.
• Thumb roll: An advanced technique where the player runs their moistened thumb around the head to create a rolling sound from the jingles.

Related Idioms

There are no common idioms specifically featuring the word "tambourine."

Noun

1. a shallow drum with a single drumhead and with metallic disks in the sides