Tambourine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tambourine

[หŒtรฆm.bษ™หˆriหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

musical instrument

A tambourine is a musical instrument consisting of a small handheld drum with metal jingles, played by shaking or hitting with the hand. It is commonly used in various music genres to add rhythm and texture to the music.

Synonyms

hand drum, jingle drum.

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Word Description / Examples
tambourine

Used in various musical genres to add a bright, jingling sound. It's often seen in pop, rock, folk, and classical performances.

  • The band added a tambourine to enhance the rhythm
  • She played the tambourine energetically during the song
hand drum

Refers broadly to any drum played with the hands, making it suitable for diverse musical styles and casual drumming settings.

  • He brought a hand drum to the campfire
  • The musician performed a solo on the hand drum
jingle drum

Similar to a tambourine but can be specifically used to emphasize the jingling components. Often used in children's music or where a softer jingle effect is desired.

  • The teacher gave each child a jingle drum
  • The jingle drum added a festive touch to the parade

Examples of usage

  • She played the tambourine during the chorus of the song.
  • The tambourine added a festive sound to the music.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The tambourine has roots tracing back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt and Mesopotamia, where it was used in religious rituals.
  • In ancient Greece, the instrument was called a 'tymbalon' and was often played during festivals and celebrations.
  • Throughout history, it has appeared in many cultures, from the Middle Eastern 'riq' to the Italian 'tamburino,' showcasing its global appeal.

Music and Culture

  • This instrument is popular in many musical genres, such as folk, rock, and jazz, adding a unique sparkle to performances.
  • In Brazilian music, particularly samba, the tambourine is essential, adding rhythm and excitement to festive celebrations.
  • The tambourine was famously used by the band The Beatles, showing its crossover appeal between traditional and contemporary music.

Psychology

  • Playing the tambourine can enhance mood and reduce stress, providing both a creative outlet and a social activity.
  • Studies show that engaging with musical instruments like the tambourine can improve cognitive functions, including memory and attention.
  • The act of making music can stimulate the release of dopamine, promoting feelings of joy and satisfaction among players and listeners.

Education

  • In music education, the tambourine is often introduced to children as a way to experience rhythm and coordination.
  • Using this instrument in classes encourages teamwork and can help improve listening skills among young learners.
  • Teachers utilize tambourines to enhance children's understanding of beat and tempo in music, making learning interactive and fun.

Art

  • Visual representations of tambourines can be found in various forms of art, from ancient pottery to modern paintings, symbolizing joy and celebration.
  • Artists often depict characters playing tambourines to convey joy, movement, and rhythm, indicating the instrument's cultural significance.
  • In various theatrical performances, tambourines are used not just for their sound but also as visual props, enhancing the overall storytelling experience.

Origin of 'tambourine'

The word 'tambourine' has its roots in the Middle French word 'tambourin', which means 'small drum'. The tambourine has been used in various cultures for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient civilizations. It has been a popular instrument in folk music and is still widely used in contemporary music.


Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,663, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.