tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈtü-bə 

ˈtyü-

: a large low-pitched brass instrument usually oval in shape and having a conical tube, a cup-shaped mouthpiece, and a usual range an octave lower than that of the euphonium

tubaist

ˈtü-bə(-i)st 

ˈtyü-

noun

or tubist

ˈtü-bist 

ˈtyü-

Illustration of tuba

Examples of tuba in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Sinaloa band sounds smooth without losing its key elements powered by clarinets, tuba, timbales and trombone. —Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 26 Sep. 2025

The lead tuba player at Ohio State doesn’t weigh 700 pounds. —Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 21 Sep. 2025

Broussard got to work, first becoming a fulltime non-traditional college student and then picking up the tuba for the first time in several decades. —Stephanie Gallman Jordan, Southern Living, 10 Sep. 2025

Senior High School, dozens of students with matching backpacks walked through the front gates, serenaded by the school’s band, which included a tuba, two clarinets, a trumpet, a trombone, and drums. —Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin, trumpet

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for tuba

• luba
• scuba
• yuba
• yoruba

Kids Definition

tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈt(y)ü-bə 

: a brass musical instrument of lowest pitch with an oval shape and valves for producing different tones