Percussion Meaning
/pɚˈkʌʃən/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounThe collision of two bodies in order to produce a sound.
nounThe sound so produced.
Sentence Examples
Percussion gives a nice touch to the melody.
Tom formerly played percussion.
CEFR Practice Quiz
In the band, the section responsible for ____ plays the drums and triangles.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The ____ section of the orchestra includes drums, cymbals, and xylophones played with mallets.
Word Origin & History
From Middle English percussioun, from Middle French, Old French percussion, from Latin percussiō (“striking”), from percutiō (“to strike”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Moreover, a perfect Medal has its Profile and out-ſtroaks ſharp (Nummus aſper) and by no means rugged; the Figures clean and well poliſh'd; the Contours neatly trimm'd, and exactly round and carefully preſerv'd; that the Extancy and Relievos correſpond with the Ingraving, and have not ſuffer'd in Percuſſion; in all which, there is a certain Spirit of Antiquity and Excellency to be diſcern'd in Antient Medals almoſt inimitable."
— 1697, J[ohn] Evelyn, “Instructions How to Collect, and Procure such Medals as are Antique, and Rare; and to Distinguish the True from the False, for the Prevention of Frauds and Impostures”, in Numismata. A Discourse of Medals, Antient and Modern. […], London: […] Benj[amin] Tooke […], →OCLC, page 201:
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CEFR Practice Quiz
In the band, the section responsible for ____ plays the drums and triangles.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The ____ section of the orchestra includes drums, cymbals, and xylophones played with mallets.