Maracas: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically associated with Latin American music, maracas are handheld percussion instruments that musicians shake to produce a rhythmic sound. They are often used in traditional Latin music, salsa, and other dance genres.

• During the salsa band performance, the musician played the maracas energetically.
• She bought a pair of maracas to add some rhythm to her Caribbean-themed party.

Shakers are percussion instruments that can come in various shapes and sizes. They are used in many types of music, from rock and pop to world music. This term is more general and can refer to any instrument that creates sound by shaking.

• The band added shakers to their song to give it an extra rhythmic layer.
• He used a small shaker to add subtle percussion to the acoustic performance.

Rattles can refer to various shaking instruments that produce sound. Often associated with toys for babies or indigenous musical instruments, they are used to create rattling sounds. The term is broader and can be used in educational settings and cultural contexts.

• The baby shook the rattle, giggling at the sound it made.
• During the ceremonial dance, the shaman used rattles made from gourds.