Glockenspiel

/ˈɡlɒkənˌspiːl/ noun

Definition

A percussion instrument with metal bars arranged like a piano keyboard that are struck with mallets to produce musical notes.

Etymology

From German Glockenspiel: Glocke ('bell') + Spiel ('game' or 'play'). German compound literally means 'bell play,' describing how the instrument works.

Kelly Says

The glockenspiel entered English as a complete German word because there was no English equivalent—it's why we borrowed it wholesale, just like 'kindergarten' and 'poltergeist,' showing language pragmatism.

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