What does kettledrum mean?
A kettledrum is a large, bowl-shaped percussion instrument whose taut membrane is struck to produce a deep, resonant sound. In modern orchestras, the instrument is commonly called the timpani and consists of a copper bowl, a skin or synthetic membrane, and a pedal that adjusts its pitch. Kettledrums have a long history in military bands, court and ceremonial music, and orchestral repertoire, where they can provide emphatic rhythmic punctuation. Their name comes from the visual resemblance of the rounded instrument body to a kettle. Although the basic form is ancient in concept, the European kettledrum developed into an important orchestral instrument, capable of producing carefully controlled notes as well as forceful accents. The word is still used specifically for this metal-bodied instrument and is sometimes retained in older names and phrases associated with ceremonial drumming.
nounA large drum with a rounded, bowl-shaped body, traditionally made of copper or another metal and used in orchestral, military, and ceremonial music. The name refers to the drum's resemblance to a large kettle.
- A large bowl-shaped percussion instrument with a taut membrane, traditionally made of metal and struck with a beater.
- An orchestral percussion instrument consisting of a large bowl-shaped drum with a membrane stretched over its opening, used for rhythm, pitch, and dramatic emphasis.
"The orchestra opened with a dramatic flourish from the kettledrum."
"A single stroke of the kettledrum announced the arrival of the king."
"The composer gave the kettledrum a prominent role in the final movement."
The plural is used when referring to multiple instruments; in an orchestral context, the paired form timpani is conventionally used for the complete set.
"The two kettledrums were tuned to different pitches for the performance."
The kettledrum's nickname, the timpani, comes from the Latin word for a drum; its unmistakable low thump has powered entrances, marches, and orchestral climaxes for centuries.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does kettledrum come from?
The word is a compound of kettle and drum, describing the instrument by its kettle-like body. The term has been used in English since the 16th century, while the underlying instrument has a much older history in various cultures. The modern orchestral form belongs to the family of timpani, whose name derives from the Latin tympanum, a drum or kettledrum.
How kettledrum is actually used
In modern orchestral contexts, the word usually refers specifically to the timpani. The spelling 'kettledrum' is the standard closed form; 'kettle drum' is also common, especially in historical and descriptive usage.
Easily confused with kettledrum
A kettledrum is a large bowl-shaped orchestral drum, whereas a tambourine is a small handheld frame drum played by shaking or striking it.