tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈtü-bə 

ˈtyü-

: a large low-pitched brass instrument usually oval in shape and having a conical tube, a cup-shaped mouthpiece, and a usual range an octave lower than that of the euphonium

tubaist

ˈtü-bə(-i)st 

ˈtyü-

noun

or tubist

ˈtü-bist 

ˈtyü-

Illustration of tuba

Examples of tuba in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

There’s a passage in the final movement when the full orchestra, reinforced by trumpets, trombones, tuba, and a thunder roll of timpani, clamber up to a teeth-rattling fortissimo. — Justin Davidson, Vulture, 18 Sep. 2026

When music is outlawed in Afghanistan, the orchestra conductor Nazar (Babak Karimi) and his tuba-playing son Jalil (Ivar Wafaei) are forced to leave everything behind. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 11 Sep. 2026

August Chesner, a Lowell High School senior and marching band member, figured his tuba weighs about 20 pounds. — Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 7 Sep. 2026

Harrison Butker The Chiefs’ eight-year kicker got his start in football because of his ability to play the tuba. — Kansas City Star, 5 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin, trumpet

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for tuba

• luba
• scuba
• yuba
• yoruba

Kids Definition

tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈt(y)ü-bə 

: a brass musical instrument of lowest pitch with an oval shape and valves for producing different tones