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bass drum

American  
[beys] / beɪs /

noun

  1. the largest and lowest toned of drums, having a cylindrical body and two membrane heads.


bass drum British  
/ beɪs /

noun

  1. Also called: gran cassa.  a large shallow drum of low and indefinite pitch

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

bass drum Cultural  
  1. The large drum with a cylindrical shape that gives the strong beat in brass bands.


Etymology

Origin of bass drum

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A cello’s has the aura of a bass drum.

From Los Angeles Times

Producer Brian Eno cited “Fresh” as the pivotal and irreversible production moment when “the rhythm instruments, particularly the bass drum and bass, suddenly become the important instruments in the mix.”

From Los Angeles Times

“The Talking Drum” — his piece for bass drum, temple gong, prerecorded sound and electronic and performed in a dry pool — explores the sonic implications of a heartbeat with thrilling result.

From Los Angeles Times

Here are some facts that will help you understand why it’s so very hard to stay cool in your home when the sun is beating on it like a bass drum.

From Seattle Times

During concerts, Carlos Niño may set up a bass drum and a floor tom, but his percussion is far from conventional.

From New York Times