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Definition of claves

claves

/ˈklɑː.veɪz/
cla · ves
Plural:claves
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claves Lexical Profile

claves Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A percussion instrument consisting of a pair of short, thick dowels of resonant hardwood that are struck together to produce a sharp, clicking rhythm, fundamental to Afro-Cuban and Latin American music.

Example

"The percussionist kept a steady, syncopated beat on the claves throughout the salsa performance."

Word Nuance & Usage

When referring to the percussion instrument, 'claves' is pronounced in two syllables (/ˈklɑːveɪz/) and is almost always used in the plural to denote the pair of sticks, whereas the singular 'clave' usually refers to the underlying rhythmic pattern itself.

• Nearby Words

claustrophobe
claustrophobia
claustrophobic
claves
clavichord
clavicle
clavilux

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Spanish 'claves', the plural of 'clave' (meaning 'key' or 'wooden peg'), derived from Latin 'clāvis' ('key'). The instrument originated in Havana shipyards, where hardwood pegs used in shipbuilding were struck together to accompany work songs.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Claves. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/claves
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