Tambour Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tambour

[หˆtรฆmbสŠษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A tambour is a drum-like musical instrument with a wooden or metal frame and a stretched membrane, played by striking or rubbing with the hands, a stick, or a pair of sticks.

Synonyms

drum, percussion instrument.

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Word Description / Examples
tambour

Describes either a type of small drum or a tool used in embroidery. In music, it often refers to a hand drum used in folk music or traditional settings.

  • The tambour added a unique rhythm to the traditional dance
  • The artisan used a tambour to create the detailed embroidery pattern
drum

A broad term used to describe various types of percussion instruments with a membrane stretched over a hollow body. Suitable in musical, educational, and everyday contexts.

  • He played the drum in the school band
  • The sound of drums echoed through the stadium during the concert
percussion instrument

A general term for any instrument that produces sound by being struck, shaken, or scraped. Often used in more formal or educational contexts.

  • Percussion instruments are a vital part of the orchestra
  • She learned to play several percussion instruments in her music class

Examples of usage

  • The musician played the tambour rhythmically.
  • She learned how to play the tambour in music class.
Context #2 | Noun

embroidery

In embroidery, a tambour is a small circular frame with a tightly stretched fabric over it that is used for creating chain stitch designs.

Synonyms

embroidery frame, sewing frame.

Examples of usage

  • She used a tambour to create intricate patterns on the fabric.
  • The tambour technique results in beautiful embroidery designs.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Music

  • Tambours have been used in various musical traditions around the world, from military bands to folk music.
  • They can be handheld, similar to a drum, or larger like a barrel, used in ensembles.
  • In orchestral music, tambourines (a type of tambour) add a lively, jingling sound.

Textiles

  • The tambour embroidery technique uses a hooked needle to create chain stitches, making it popular in fashion.
  • This method dates back to the 18th century, often used in creating elaborate decorations on garments.
  • Many artisans still practice tambour embroidery, blending traditional skills with modern designs.

Cultural Significance

  • In some cultures, tambours are not just instruments; they are integral to ceremonies and rituals.
  • Different types of tambours can symbolize various cultural identities, particularly in African and Latin American music.
  • Sounding a tambour can bring communities together, often seen in festivals and celebrations.

Art and Craft

  • Artists use tambour frames for precision in tensile strength during fabric work, crucial in quilt-making.
  • This frame allows for tensioned fabric surfaces, enabling detailed stitching without distortion.
  • Electric tambour frames are now emerging, making embroidery easier and accessible to more people.

Origin of 'tambour'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the French word 'tambour', which means drum, showing its musical roots.
  • The term has origins from the Arabic word 'tannลซr', which refers to percussion instruments.
  • Related to the Latin word 'tambo', referring to drumming.

The word 'tambour' originated from the French word 'tambour' which means drum. It first appeared in English in the mid-18th century. The term has evolved to refer to both a musical instrument and an embroidery frame, reflecting its dual usage in different contexts.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,767 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.