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kalimba

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /kəˈlɪmbə/

KK: /kəˈlɪmbə/

noun
Definition

A musical instrument from Africa that consists of a wooden box with metal bars on top, which are played by plucking with the fingers.


Example

She played a beautiful melody on her kalimba during the gathering.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried playing a kalimba?
Sloth B
No, I haven't, but I've heard they sound beautiful.
Sloth A
They really do! I love how relaxing the sound of a kalimba can be.
Sloth B
That sounds amazing! I'd love to hear you play sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
mbira
lamellophone
thumbpiano
Antonyms
Root Explanation

Kalimba → The word 'kalimba' originates from the Bantu languages of Africa, specifically from the Zulu word 'kalimba', which refers to a musical instrument made of metal tines attached to a wooden board. The term describes this specific type of thumb piano, emphasizing its cultural significance in African music.

Memory Tip

Imagine a beautiful wooden instrument with metal tines that you play with your thumbs — that's the kalimba, a unique musical creation from Africa.

Visually Confused Words
akalimba
kallima
kamba
alima
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