cymbal

noun

cym·​bal ˈsim-bəl 

: a concave metal plate (as of brass or bronze) that produces a brilliant clashing tone and that is struck with a drumstick or is used in pairs struck glancingly together

cymbalist

ˈsim-bə-list 

noun

Examples of cymbal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Let the schmuck tumble downstairs with a happy clash of cymbals. — Christian Wiman, New Yorker, 8 June 2026

Near the end, an automatic volley machine shot out pink tennis balls that bounced onto stray drum cymbals spilled around the room. — Andy Battaglia, ARTnews.com, 18 June 2026

The sound of ancient instruments — cymbals, bells and drums — punctuated the monastic chants. — CBS News, 28 May 2026

The diamond grid of the shutters serves as the frame, splitting the photo itself into parts, while tiny cymbals have been placed underneath the wood, turning the work into a massive tambourine. — Douglas Markowitz, Miami Herald, 23 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English cymbal & Anglo-French cymbele, from Latin cymbalum, from Greek kymbalon, from kymbē bowl, boat

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cymbal

• gimbal
• nimble
• symbol
• thimble

Kids Definition

cymbal

noun

cym·​bal ˈsim-bəl 

: a brass plate that is struck with a drumstick or is used in pairs struck together to make a clashing sound

cymbalist

-bə-ləst 

noun