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helicon

helicon

1 9.8
A large brass instrument like a tuba that wraps around the player's shoulders
  • noun
  • /ˈhɛlɪˌkɒn/
translation icon : helicón

Synonyms

tuba
vshelicon
20 3.7

A large metal wind instrument with a deep low sound

is worn around the shoulders for marching instead of serving as orchestra bass
sousaphone
vshelicon
2 9.2

A large brass instrument like a tuba that wraps around the player to make it easy to carry while marching

is coiled to sit on the shoulders rather than wrapping around the body
brass instrument
vshelicon
  • Specialized
1 3.4

A musical instrument played by blowing and making your lips buzz on a metal mouthpiece, like a trumpet or trombone

is a specific coiled form made to be worn for marching bands
bombardon
vshelicon
  • Archaic
9.9

A large brass instrument that plays very low notes in a band or orchestra

is made to be worn for marching rather than used only as a stationary bass
bass horn
vshelicon
  • Specialized
7.0

A brass instrument with a very low sound used in orchestras and bands

is coiled to fit on the shoulders for marching rather than defined by pitch

Surface Forms

helicon singular
helicons plural

Etymology

The word helicon comes from the Greek root helix, which means 'spiral' or 'twist', and the same root appears in helicopter. The instrument is made in a large coil so it wraps around the player's body, so the name reminds us of its spiral shape.