finger cymbals

plural noun

: a percussion instrument consisting of a pair of tiny cymbals that attach to a thumb and finger of each hand and are struck together especially in belly dancing

called also zills, zils

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of finger cymbals was in 1888

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near finger cymbals

Cite this Entry

“Finger cymbals.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/finger%20cymbals. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!