Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
idiophone
Noun
/ˌɪdiəˈfoʊn/
Definition
A type of musical instrument that creates sound primarily by the vibration of its own body, without the use of strings or membranes.
Examples
- The marimba is an example of an idiophone with wooden bars that resonate when struck with mallets.
- Many percussion instruments, like cymbals and bells, fall into the idiophone category.
- Idiophones can be played in bands and orchestras to add unique sounds to the music.
Meaning
Idiophones are instruments that produce sound through the material itself vibrating when struck, shaken, or scraped.
Synonyms
- Percussion instrument
- Self-sounding instrument
- Vibrating instrument
