Definition

A musical instrument that has a round frame with a drumhead and small metal discs that make a jingling sound when it is shaken or hit.

Example

She played the tambourine during the band performance.

Conversation

Have you ever tried playing a tambourine?

No, I haven't! Is it fun?

Yeah, it's really easy and adds a nice rhythm to music.

That sounds awesome! I might give it a try sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tambourine → The word 'tambourine' comes from the Middle French 'tambourin', which is a diminutive form of 'tambour' (meaning drum), itself derived from the Arabic 'ṭanbūr' (meaning drum). The word refers to a small hand-held percussion instrument resembling a drum.

Memory Tip

Think of a small 'drum' ('tambour') when you picture a tambourine, as it is a smaller version of a drum used for making music.

Visually Confused Words