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djembe

Elementary (A2)

IPA: //ˈdʒɛm.beɪ//

KK: /dʒɛmˈbeɪ/

noun
Definition

A large drum that is covered with animal skin and played by hand, commonly used in West African music and sometimes in other types of music.


Example

The musician played a lively rhythm on the djembe during the festival.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried playing a djembe?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but it looks fun!
Sloth A
You should definitely give it a go; the sound is amazing.
Sloth B
I would love to try a djembe sometime!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
drum
percussion
instrument
Antonyms
Root Explanation

The word 'djembe' originates from the Bambara language of Mali, where it means 'to gather' or 'to come together'.

Memory Tip

Think of the meaning 'to gather' — the djembe is a drum that brings people together in music and celebration.

Visually Confused Words
deme
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