maraca

noun

ma·​ra·​ca mə-ˈrä-kə  -ˈra- 

: a rattle usually made from a gourd that is used as a percussion instrument

Examples of maraca in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There were even moments where maracas and hand bells were used. — Kansas City Star, 21 Feb. 2026

These moving leaves are chased by male villagers to the soundtrack of maracas and a pulsing drum. — Georgina Lawton, Vogue, 18 Mar. 2026

Expect to hear maracas, flutes, guitars and percussion. — Miami Herald, 24 Apr. 2026

During this period members of the community gather at the home of the deceased, where women typically lead the singing and play percussion instruments such as drums and maracas. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 9 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese maracá, from Tupi maraká

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for maraca

• jataka
• kabaka
• kanaka
• macaca
• resaca
• baka
• paca
• shaka

Kids Definition

maraca

noun

ma·​ra·​ca mə-ˈräk-ə  -ˈrak- 

: a dried gourd or a rattle like a gourd that contains dried seeds or pebbles and is used as a musical rhythm instrument usually played in pairs by shaking