noun
- large bowl-shaped drums with a membrane stretched over the top, typically played in pairs or sets in orchestras
Usage: plural of kettledrum; also called timpani
Examples
- The kettledrums provided a dramatic thunderous sound during the storm scene.
- She practiced her kettledrum rolls for the upcoming symphony performance.
- The orchestra’s kettledrums were tuned to different pitches before the concert.
- His powerful strikes on the kettledrums echoed throughout the concert hall.
- The composer wrote an intricate solo passage for the kettledrums.
- Two large kettledrums flanked the back of the orchestra pit.