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