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Maraca Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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maraca

[muh-RAH-kah ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A maraca is a handheld percussion instrument often used in Latin American music. It consists of a hollow body filled with beads or seeds, which produces sound when shaken. Maracas are typically played in pairs and are popular in various musical genres, including salsa and samba.

Synonyms

rattle, shaker.

Examples of usage

  • She played the maracas to accompany the band.
  • The children enjoyed shaking the maracas during the music class.
  • He added maracas to the song to give it a festive feel.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many Latin American countries, maracas are central to folk music and traditional celebrations.
  • They are commonly used in genres like Salsa and Merengue, contributing to the vibrant and rhythmic music.

Famous Musicians

  • Maracas were famously used by musicians like Carlos Santana to give a lively touch to their performances.
  • Popularized in the 20th century, many modern artists incorporate maracas to add a fun element to their tracks.

Psychology of Sound

  • Research shows that shaking instruments like maracas can boost mood and increase feelings of joy due to their rhythmic nature.
  • Playing percussion instruments like maracas has been linked to improved cognitive skills and emotional expression.

Global Variations

  • While they are now associated with Latin music, similar shaking instruments can be found in cultures worldwide, like the 'caxixi' in Brazil and 'rattle' in African traditions.
  • Every culture puts its unique spin on shaking instruments, adapting the design and sound to fit their musical styles.

Origin of 'maraca'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'maraca' comes from the Tupi-Guarani language, which is spoken by some indigenous people in South America.
  • Originally made from shells or gourds, the modern maracas are often made from plastic and filled with beads for a sharper sound.

The word 'maraca' has its roots in the Spanish language, which borrowed it from the Native American languages of the Taino and Arawak tribes. The term was originally used to describe the instrument made from gourds or other materials, filled with seeds or small stones to create sound. Maracas are traditionally associated with Latin American music and have been used for centuries in various cultural celebrations and rituals. Over time, the instrument has spread globally, influencing different music styles and being incorporated into modern genres. The maracas are often featured prominently in salsa, reggae, and Afro-Cuban music, illustrating their lasting impact on musical traditions and their evolution throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,097, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.