glockenspiel

[ glok-uhn-speel, -shpeel ]

noun

1. a musical instrument composed of a set of graduated steel bars mounted in a frame and struck with hammers, used especially in bands.

glockenspiel

/ ˈɡlɒkənˌspiːl; -ˌʃpiːl /

noun

1. a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned metal plates played with a pair of small hammers

Word History and Origins

Origin of glockenspiel¹

1815–25; < German, equivalent to Glocken bells + Spiel play

Word History and Origins

Origin of glockenspiel¹

C19: German, from Glocken bells + Spiel play

Example Sentences

When Puts reaches for percussion instruments, he chooses the sweeter ones — glockenspiel, crotales, chimes, vibraphone — and combines them luxuriously.

From New York Times

The trio are joined by a full band as well by two cellists, four violinists and a glockenspiel.

From Washington Times

“She was well-educated, quietly brought up, shy, modest and an accomplished player on the glockenspiel.”

From Los Angeles Times

Abensberg's town centre is deeply traditional with cobbled streets and a glockenspiel on the town hall.

From BBC

There’s pointillistic syncopation from marimba, glockenspiel and pizzicato strings, with a backdrop of sustained chords: the ticktock of everyday minutiae held together by the promise of constancy.

From New York Times