Definition of Zimbelstern
plural Zimbelsterns
also Cymbelsterns
or Cimbelsterns
: a circular arrangement of small untuned bells usually attached to an organ that when activated ring continuously as they are struck by rotating strikers
- The Zimbelstern sets into rotation a star-shaped disc attached to the central facade pipe; little bells suspended from the corners of this star are caused to tinkle by the rotating motion.
- —Hans Klotz, The Organ Handbook, 1969
