tambourine - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
tambourine Word Meanings
- a musical instrument played by shaking or hitting
- a frame with jingling metal discs
- a tool used for rhythm in music
tambourine Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
tambourine Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌtæm.bəˈriːn/
US
/ˌtæm.bəˈrin/
tambourine Word Etymology
root: tambour (drum) + -ine (suffix forming nouns); Historical origin: Latin 'timbre' → Old French 'tamourin' → English 'tambourine'; Memory image: Picture a joyous circle of people at a festival, shaking their tambourines in rhythm, creating a vibrant atmosphere of sound.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Tambourine is a small, circular percussion instrument with a drum-like frame and metal jingles around the rim. It is played by shaking, striking, or tapping to create a bright, shimmering sound. The instrument appears across folk, pop, theatre, and world music, often providing accent rhythms that are quick and light rather than heavy and loud. It is closely associated with dance and celebration, festival crowds, and stage performances. When learning this word, remember that the focus is on the jingling sound and the shaking action, not on a drumbeat. The -ine suffix marks a noun, and a vivid image of people happily circling and shaking tambourines helps learners picture its use in context.
Usage Reminders
- Keep the motion light and flexible
- Listen for the jingling in the beat
- Don’t confuse tambourine with a drum
- Remember the -ine suffix marks a noun
- Use it to add sparkle to rhythms, not power
- Picture a circle of people celebrating with tambourines
Common Misconceptions
- Tambourine is a drum, not just a circle of bells
- All tambourines sound the same; they don’t vary by music style
- You must strike hard to be heard; shaking alone is enough
- The instrument is only for folk music
- The word tambourine refers to a person who plays the instrument
Thinking Differences
Vivid, image-based description helps learners picture the instrument in social settings; English often leans on visual cues and idioms for rhythm and celebration.
Learning Tips
- Listen for the jingling sound in different genres
- Practice a light wrist motion for shaking
- Mix shaking and tapping to vary texture
- Compare tambourine with bell sounds vs. drum tone
- Use it to mark off small rhythmic accents
- Visualize a circle of players to remember the scene
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'tambourine'?
A.A type of bird
B.A musical instrument
C.A cooking utensil
D.A style of painting
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'tambourine' correctly?
A.He played the tambourine at the concert.
B.She cooked dinner with a tambourine.
C.The tambourine is a citrus fruit.
D.They decorated the tambourine with flowers.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'tambourine'?
A.Chair
B.Spoon
C.Drum
D.Pencil
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'tambourine'?
A.Silence
B.Guitar
C.Harmonica
D.Ocarina
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context that involves 'tambourine'?
A.A chef is preparing a gourmet meal.
B.Children are painting their favorite fruits.
C.A musician plays an instrument at a festival.
D.Someone is reading a book in the park.
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