tom-tom

noun

ˈtäm-ˌtäm How to pronounce tom-tom (audio)
ˈtəm-ˌtəm
1
: a usually long and narrow small-headed drum commonly beaten with the hands
2
old-fashioned : tam-tam sense 2
3
a
: something used to make a noise suggestive of the tom-tom's beating
b
: a monotonous beating, rhythm, or rhythmical sound
4
or less commonly tom : a cylindrical two-headed drum of varying size often used in pairs in drum sets

Illustration of tom-tom

Illustration of tom-tom
  • tom-tom 1

Word History

Etymology

Hindi & Urdu ṭamṭam

First Known Use

1693, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of tom-tom was in 1693

Dictionary Entries Near tom-tom

Cite this Entry

“Tom-tom.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tom-tom. Accessed 24 Mar. 2023.

Kids Definition

tom-tom

noun
ˈtäm-ˌtäm,
ˈtəm-ˌtəm
: a usually long and narrow drum commonly beaten with the hands
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