A small musical instrument you hum into to make a buzzing, humming sound.
Likely derived from the Bantu language word 'gumbo,' referring to a similar African instrument. The modern name appeared in America in the 1880s-1890s, possibly from a brand name or onomatopoeia.
The kazoo became hugely popular as a cheap alternative to real instruments during the Great Depression when people couldn't afford pianos or guitars—everyone could afford a 25-cent piece of fun!
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