tambourine etymology

Etymology: The word "tambourine" originated from the French word "tambourin," which in turn derived from the Arabic word "tunbur" (طنبور). The Arabic term "tunbur" refers to a type of stringed instrument.

Meaning: A tambourine is a percussion instrument consisting of a circular frame with a stretched animal skin or plastic head, and small metal disks or jingles attached to its circumference. It is played by shaking or striking it with the hand or a stick.

Origin: The tambourine has ancient origins, with its roots traced back to ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. Similar instruments with different names were used in various cultures throughout history.

  • Ancient Egypt: Depictions of tambourines or similar percussion instruments are found on ancient Egyptian tomb paintings and reliefs dating back to 2800 BCE.
  • Mesopotamia: Tambourines were also present in ancient Mesopotamia (present-day Iraq) as early as 2300 BCE, as evidenced by archaeological findings.
  • Greece: The ancient Greeks used an instrument called the "tympanon," which was similar to a tambourine. It was associated with the cult of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility.
  • Medieval Europe: The tambourine was brought to Europe by the Moors during the Middle Ages. It became a popular instrument in folk and religious music.
  • 18th Century: The tambourine's use expanded into classical music during the 18th century. Composers like Mozart and Rossini incorporated it into their works.
  • 20th Century: In the 20th century, the tambourine gained popularity in popular music genres such as jazz, folk, and rock. It became a staple instrument in many music ensembles.

tambourine relate terms

  • tabor

    Etymology Old English taber Late Latin taberna inn shop Greek τάβερνα tabérn

  • tambourine

    Etymology The word tambourine originated from the French word tambourin which in tur

  • tambour

    Etymology The word tambour comes from the French word tambour which in turn comes fr

  • tambourine

    Etymology The word tambourine originated from the French word tambourin which in tur

  • tympanum

    Etymology Middle French from Latin tympanum from Greek τύμπανον túmpanon fr

  • banjo

    Etymology The word banjo comes from the African word mbanja or banza which refer

  • rhomb

    Etymology The word rhomb comes from the Greek word rhombos meaning spinning top

  • minstrel

    Etymology The word minstrel comes from the Old French word menestrel which in turn i

  • drum

    Etymology The word drum comes from the Old English word drem which is related to the

  • Basque

    Etymology and Meaning The name Basque comes from the Latin word vascones which was t

  • Basque

    Etymology and Meaning The name Basque comes from the Latin word vascones which was t

  • timbre

    Etymology French timbre Latin timbrus tympanum Greek τύμπανον tympanon

  • sage

    Etymology The word sage derives from the Latin word sagax meaning wise or prudent

  • data

    Data Etymology From the Latin word datum meaning given Meaning A piece of i