Definition

A musical instrument made of a long stick with a gourd at one end and a single wire stretched across it, used in Brazilian music and dance.

Example

The musician played the berimbau beautifully during the capoeira performance.

Conversation

Have you ever seen someone play the berimbau?

No, I haven't! What kind of instrument is it?

It's a traditional Brazilian instrument with a gourd and a steel wire.

That sounds really interesting! I'd love to hear it live.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'berimbau' originates from the Bantu language, specifically from the Kimbundu word 'mbanza', meaning a musical bow. It refers to a single-string percussion instrument used in Brazilian music, particularly in capoeira.

Memory Tip

Think of the Bantu word for a musical bow, 'mbanza', to remember that a 'berimbau' is a musical instrument that resembles a bow.

Visually Confused Words