noun
castanet
kas-tuh-NET/ˌkæstəˈnɛt/
A small handheld percussion instrument clicked together with another in a pair.
Each castanet has a hollow interior and a rim that strikes its partner.
Etymology
The name means “little chestnut” and was applied to the small concave shells clicked together to beat time in music or dancing.
More examples
- A wooden castanet rests in the palm of her hand.
- The percussionist practices a quick rhythm on the castanets.
- The hollow castanets produce a sharp clicking sound.
Forms
castanet · castanets
Similar words
- clapper
- A broader percussion device that makes sound by striking parts together.
- cymbal
- A metal percussion instrument with a different shape and sound.