singing bowl

noun

plural singing bowls

: a bowl-shaped musical instrument usually made of crystal or metal that when struck produces a resonant tone which can be prolonged by drawing an implement (such as a mallet) around the rim and that is used chiefly in spiritual or therapeutic practices

High-quality singing bowls are traditionally made from seven metals, including gold, lead and mercury. They are tuned to a certain pitch to be used during meditation by rubbing a wooden mallet around the rim.

—Dave Zuchowski

Singing bowls are found in different cultures where sounds feature prominently in spiritual rituals. … Originally brought to the West by spiritual tourists and New Age enthusiasts who sought to understand the sound phenomena in prayers and special ceremonials, the singing bowl is today enjoying ever increasing popularity.

—Lillian Too

Although there isn't much scientific evidence to back it up, the vibrations and clear tones produced by Tibetan singing bowls are widely thought to reduce stress and improve a sense of well-being.

—Patrick Farmer

Word History

First Known Use

1980, in the meaning defined above