Cabasa

/kəˈbɑːsə/ noun

Definition

A percussion instrument consisting of a hollow chamber with rattling pellets inside, used in Latin and world music.

Etymology

From Portuguese or Spanish, borrowed from African languages. The cabasa became popular in Latin music in the 20th century as part of the diaspora's musical heritage.

Kelly Says

The 'cabasa' is a percussion instrument that traveled from Africa through the Portuguese/Spanish diaspora and became essential to Latin music—a perfect example of how cultural exchange creates new art!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.