bull-roarer

[bool-rawr-er, -rohr-]

noun

1. a wooden slat that produces a roaring sound when whirled around one's head on the end of a string or thong, used by some peoples of the world in religious ceremonies and by others as a toy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of bull-roarer¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Tundun, tun′dun, n. a bull-roarer.

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It was the note of the bull-roarer, that mystic instrument of pointed wood, whirled by a string round the head of the hierophant, by whose aid savages in their secret rites summon to their shrines their gods and spirits.

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By "staff" Mr. Ridley appears to indicate the Tundun, or bull-roarer.

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In Mrs. Langloh Parker's book a Messenger is called "the All-seeing Spirit," apparently identical with her Wallahgooroonbooan, whose voice is heard in the noise of the tundun, or bull-roarer, used in the Mysteries.*

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According to Clemens Alexandrinus**** and other authorities, the Titans won his heart with toys, including the bull-roarer or turn-dun of the Australians.****

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