Search Dictionary
Definition of glockenspiel

glockenspiel

/ˈɡlɑːkənˌʃpiːl/
glock · en · spiel
Plural:glockenspiels
JUMP TO:

glockenspiel Lexical Profile

glockenspiel Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A musical percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned metal bars mounted in a frame and arranged like a piano keyboard, which are struck with small mallets to produce a bright, ringing sound.

Example

"The delicate, chiming notes of the glockenspiel perfectly complemented the soaring melody of the string section."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for glockenspiel

Word Nuance & Usage

Although frequently referred to simply as 'bells' in orchestral scores, a glockenspiel strictly features flat metal bars rather than the cylindrical tubes used in tubular bells or chimes.

• Nearby Words

globular
globularia
globule
glockenspiel
glomach
glomma
gloom

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from German 'Glockenspiel', literally meaning 'bell play' or 'playing of bells', derived from 'Glocken' (bells) and 'Spiel' (play).

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Glockenspiel. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/glockenspiel
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.