timpani

or tym·pa·ni

[ tim-puh-nee ]

noun

, (used with a singular or plural verb)

1. a set of kettledrums, especially as used in an orchestra or band.

timpani

/ ˈtɪmpənɪ /

plural noun

1. sometimes functioning as singular a set of kettledrums, two or more in number Often (informal) shortened totimps

timpani

1. Italian for kettledrums ; the term timpani is often preferred by composers and performers.

Derived Forms

• ˈtimpanist, noun

Other Words From

• timpa·nist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of timpani¹

< Italian, plural of timpano kettledrum < Latin tympanum < Greek týmpanon

Word History and Origins

Origin of timpani¹

from Italian, pl of timpano kettledrum, from Latin: tympanum

Example Sentences

Then, as the trumpets blared and the timpani went wild, a voice broke out from the conductor’s podium.

From New York Times

The show in the conservatory’s packed auditorium opened with models in punk attire walking through the auditorium to timpani drumbeats.

From Seattle Times

In addition to their own Dolby Atmos mikes on timpani, horns and opera soloists, they hired Classic Sounds of London, who have miked the Ely Cathedral before.

From Los Angeles Times

A timpani’s rumble rising softly off growling cellos.

From New York Times

I saw violinist Nikolaj Szeps-Znaider play Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D Major with the New York Philharmonic in early November and was struck by how the reconfiguration of the hall, along with greater illumination, made the audience a part of the proceedings — the man who bobbed his head in time with the timpani, the woman in the red shawl who enthusiastically applauded the musicians.

From Los Angeles Times