kalimba

[ kuh-lim-buh ]

noun

1. mbira.

Word History and Origins

Origin of kalimba¹

1950–55; the instrument's name in a number of Bantu languages of East Africa, e.g., Bisa, Lala (Zambia), Tumbuka, Nyanja (Malawi); marimba

Example Sentences

Playing zither and kalimba, a solar-intense Laraaji unlocked sheafs of astounding, ethereal noise, an unintended, confident rebuke to what had been happening before his arrival.

From New York Times

They’re working with tons of instruments here: analog synths, Fender Rhodes, digitally programmed percussion, baritone guitar, saxophones, kalimba.

From New York Times

He scored the opening scenes, which paint a portrait of the vibrant, thriving Dahomey village, with African pastorale — bouncing a string orchestra along with a gentle groove on regional instruments including kalimba and kora.

From Los Angeles Times

El’Zabar put down strong polyrhythms — sometimes at the drum kit, but more often with kalimba or cajón and a set of bells he attaches to his foot.

From Washington Post

Here’s a kalimba, an African thumb piano with metal tines that plink like a music box.

From Washington Post