cowbell

noun

cow·​bell ˈkau̇-ˌbel How to pronounce cowbell (audio)
: a bell hung around the neck of a cow to make a sound by which the cow can be located

Examples of cowbell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Around his neck, each walker bears a heavy, gonging cowbell. Veronique Greenwood, Time, 21 Dec. 2025 In December 2022, the band had their first live gig in San Diego, and Ferrell got up on stage to play the cowbell — reminiscent of his iconic Saturday Night Live sketch from more than 20 years ago. Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 11 Dec. 2025 The accordion and percussive instruments like bongos, congas, timbales, cowbells and shakers form reggaeton beats and dancey tempos. Audrey Gibbs, Nashville Tennessean, 30 Oct. 2025 Normally, the intersection of 3rd and D Streets is quiet on weekends, but during the No Kings protest, the streets echoed with chants, music, cowbells, the honks of motorists showing support and the cheers of protestors in response. Madeline Armstrong, Oc Register, 18 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for cowbell

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cowbell was in 1625

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cowbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cowbell. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

cowbell

noun
cow·​bell ˈkau̇-ˌbel How to pronounce cowbell (audio)
: a bell hung about the neck of a cow to indicate its whereabouts
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!