glockenspiel

American  

[glok-uhn-speel, -shpeel] / ˈglɒk ənˌspil, -ˌʃpil /

noun

1. a musical instrument composed of a set of graduated steel bars mounted in a frame and struck with hammers, used especially in bands.

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glockenspiel British  

/ ˈɡlɒkənˌspiːl, -ˌʃpiːl /

noun

1. a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned metal plates played with a pair of small hammers

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Etymology

Origin of glockenspiel

1815–25; < German, equivalent to Glocken bells + Spiel play

Compare meaning

How does glockenspiel compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• glockenspiel vs. xylophone

Example Sentences

The trio are joined by a full band as well by two cellists, four violinists and a glockenspiel.

From Washington Times • Dec. 20, 2023

While running through the house-floating cue from Pixar’s “Up,” he told the player on his left that the glockenspiel can be a little louder and to try adding a little shimmer.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 20, 2022

The percussion is especially important — soloist roles for the xylorimba and glockenspiel as well as for the piano and horn, the four protagonists of the piece.

From Seattle Times • May 27, 2022

“Spiel” conveys both the toylike quality and jittery anxiety, the sweet tones and clipped tapping, of the glockenspiel.

From New York Times • Dec. 2, 2021

While each instrument is limited in range to fewer than two octaves, all together, from bass bars to soprano glockenspiel, the ensemble covers six octaves, creating an entire orchestra!

From "Music and the Child" by Natalie Sarrazin