BERIMBAU Meaning and
Definition
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Berimbau: (noun)
The berimbau is a musical instrument originating from Brazil, specifically associated with the Afro-Brazilian martial art and dance known as Capoeira. It belongs to the family of musical bows and is characterized by its distinctive single string stretched tightly over a wooden bow-shaped frame. The upper end of the frame is generally covered with a resonating gourd, creating a unique sound when the instrument is played.
Traditionally made from natural materials such as bamboo, wood, and gourds, berimbaus come in different sizes, each producing distinct tones and pitches. The player, known as a berimbauista, holds the instrument against their torso using a loop of string or belt while striking the string with a small piece of wood called a baqueta. By adjusting the tension and striking the string at various points, the berimbauista can produce a wide range of pitch variations and tonal qualities.
In Capoeira, the berimbau plays a crucial role as the guiding instrument, setting the rhythm and tempo for the movements of the participants. It is also accompanied by other traditional Brazilian instruments such as the pandeiro (tambourine) and atabaque (drum), creating a vibrant and rhythmic musical backdrop for the Capoeira practitioners.
Beyond its significance in Capoeira, the berimbau has gained popularity in various musical genres and cultural contexts around the world, often being adapted and combined with other instruments. Its distinct sound and cultural significance make it a celebrated symbol of Brazilian music and heritage.
Common Misspellings for BERIMBAU
- verimbau
- nerimbau
- herimbau
- gerimbau
- bwrimbau
- bsrimbau
- bdrimbau
- brrimbau
- b4rimbau
- b3rimbau
- beeimbau
- bedimbau
- befimbau
- betimbau
- be5imbau
- be4imbau
- berumbau
- berjmbau
- berkmbau
- berombau
Etymology of BERIMBAU
The word "berimbau" has its roots in the African Bantu languages, particularly in Angola. It is believed to originate from the Kimbundu language, where it is pronounced "Mbaliambué" or "Nguriambué". Over time, as the instrument spread to different parts of the world, the name has undergone slight variations in pronunciation and spelling.
The Kimbundu term "Mbaliambué" is a compound word. "Mbali" means "bow" or "arch", referring to the curvature of the instrument, and "ambué" means "to strike" or "to hit". This description accurately represents the berimbau, as it consists of a flexible wooden bow and a metal string, which is struck with a wooden stick called a "vaqueta" or "baqueta".
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