Percussion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅ
percussion
[pษหkสส(ษ)n ]
Definitions
music
The striking of one body against another with some sharpness; collision; as, a percussion of the brain.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| percussion |
Used in the context of music to describe instruments that produce sound when struck.
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| impact |
Describes a strong effect or influence, often used in scientific, dramatic, or formal contexts to denote a powerful collision or effect.
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| strike |
Typically used to describe a sudden, forceful action, often in more formal contexts. Can also refer to work stoppage in the context of labor disputes.
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| hit |
Commonly used in everyday language to describe an act of forcefully touching or striking someone or something. Often implies a direct and forceful action.
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Examples of usage
- The percussion of the drum added rhythm to the music.
- She played the percussion instruments with great skill.
- The percussion section of the orchestra includes drums and cymbals.
medicine
The act of tapping or striking the surface of the body in order to detect evidence of fluid within a cavity, determine the density of a part, dislodge calculi, etc.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| percussion |
Often used in musical contexts to describe instruments that are played by striking, such as drums, or the act of playing these instruments.
|
| tap |
Used to describe a light or gentle touch, often with the fingers. It can be used in both literal and figurative senses.
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| strike |
Formal term often used in contexts such as sports, labor actions, or military. It can also imply a more intense or powerful hit.
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| hit |
General term used to describe any action of striking something with force. Often associated with physical actions, sports, or impacts.
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Examples of usage
- The doctor performed a percussion on the patient's chest to check for fluid buildup.
- Percussion is often used to diagnose conditions in the abdomen.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, percussion instruments are used in rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing communication with ancestral spirits.
- African drumming traditions often use percussion to tell stories and share histories, connecting communities.
Science of Sound
- Percussion sounds are produced by vibrations that travel through the air, creating sound waves that we can hear.
- The pitch of a percussion instrument depends on its size and the material itโs made from; smaller or tighter objects produce higher pitches.
History
- Some of the oldest musical instruments found by archaeologists are percussion instruments, dating back thousands of years.
- Drum-like instruments have been essential in military communication for centuries, used to relay orders during battles.
Pop Culture
- Percussion plays a vital role in many music genres, including jazz, rock, and classical, often driving the rhythm of a song.
- Famous drummers like Buddy Rich and Ringo Starr have revolutionized how percussion is perceived in popular music.
Origin of 'percussion'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'percussio', meaning 'a striking', which ties closely to how these instruments produce sound.
- The root 'percutere' in Latin means 'to strike through', emphasizing the action of hitting to make music.
The word 'percussion' originated from the Latin word 'percussio', which means a striking. It has been used in English since the 16th century. Percussion instruments have been used in various cultures throughout history for communication, rituals, and music. The development of percussion in Western music led to the inclusion of percussion sections in orchestras and bands.