tympani
1
8.4
- noun
- /ˈtɪmpəni/
:
tímpano
- In a cat, both the tensor tympani muscle and the stapedius muscle contract simultaneously in response to loud auditory stimuli.
Examples
-
The orchestra featured a magnificent tympani that resonated beautifully during the concert.
-
She played the tympani with great skill, adding depth to the symphony's sound.
-
The bold sound of the tympani is essential for creating dramatic moments in orchestral music.
Synonyms
4
7.9
Large round drums used in an orchestra that you can tune to different notes
3
8.6
A large metal drum with a tight skin that you can tune and orchestras play
1
6.0
A large round drum in an orchestra you tune to play a clear note
A large round drum made of metal with a skin you can tighten to change the sound
Compounds
- Specialized
A small muscle in the middle ear that tightens to reduce loud sound reaching the eardrum
How Loud
1
7.7
- Specialized
5
3.0
1
8.4
3
3.5
21
3.4
7
2.1
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word tympani comes from the Greek word tympanon, which means 'drum', and that's why tympani are the large, tuned drums you hear in an orchestra.