percussion instrument

American  

noun

1. a musical instrument, as the drum, cymbal, triangle, xylophone, or piano, that is struck to produce a sound, as distinguished from string or wind instruments.

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percussion instrument British  

noun

1. any of various musical instruments that produce a sound when their resonating surfaces are struck directly, as with a stick or mallet, or by leverage action. They may be of definite pitch (as a kettledrum or xylophone), indefinite pitch (as a gong or rattle), or a mixture of both (as various drums)

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Etymology

Origin of percussion instrument

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

A percussion instrument was also designed, with the drum head using the same material as the vessel's sails.

From BBC

I play all the Afro-Cuban percussion instruments that are inherent in Cuban music.

From Los Angeles Times

A 12-piece band of brass, woodwind and percussion instruments provided a musical backdrop in the church patio.

From Los Angeles Times

At the end the musicians pick up percussion instruments and leave the stage in a slow, winding procession of dance steps, as if marching into the unknown.

From Los Angeles Times

Musicians coped with a byzantine backstage area that felt like a cramped obstacle course, with percussion instruments piled in a corner.

From Los Angeles Times