gambang

noun

gam·​bang ˈgäm-ˌbäŋ How to pronounce gambang (audio)
plural gambangs
: an Indonesian instrument like a xylophone with wooden or bamboo bars that rest on an oblong boxlike wooden resonator
School children often learn basic music on instruments such as a suling, angklung or gambang.Sally Heinrich, Key into Indonesia, 2005

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Javanese, going back to Old Javanese gambaŋ

First Known Use

1845, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of gambang was in 1845

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near gambang

Cite this Entry

“Gambang.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/gambang. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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