# cymbal

/ˈsɪmbəɫ/ (US) · /sˈɪmbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cymbal
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

a thin round metal plate that makes a loud ringing sound when you hit it with a stick. You see it in drum sets in bands and orchestras.

For teachers: a concave metal percussion plate that produces a resonant crashing or ringing tone when struck. Typically mounted on a stand as part of a drum kit or played in pairs in orchestras.

## Examples

- The drummer hits the cymbal with a stick.
- During the final chorus, the drummer hits the cymbal hard to make the ending feel bigger.
- When the orchestra reached its climax, a single crash of the cymbal cut through the strings and brass with startling clarity.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.