\Cym"bal\ (s[i^]m"bal). n. [OE. cimbale, simbale, OF.
cimbale, F. cymbale, L. cymbalum, fr. Gr. ky`mbalon, fr.
ky`mbh, ky`mbos, anything hollow, hollow vessel, basin, akin
to Skr. kumbha pot. Cf. {Chime}.]
1. A musical instrument used by the ancients. It is supposed
   to have been similar to the modern kettle drum, though
   perhaps smaller.
2. A musical instrument of brass, shaped like a circular dish
   or a flat plate, with a handle at the back; -- used in
   pairs to produce a sharp ringing sound by clashing them
   together.
Note: In orchestras, one cymbal is commonly attached to the
      bass drum, and the other heid in the drummer's left
      hand, while his right hand uses the drumstick.
3. A musical instrument used by gypsies and others, made of
   steel wire, in a triangular form, on which are movable
   rings.