small drum crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "small drum" in your crossword puzzle? You've landed on the right page! We've gathered all the common and less common answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Find the perfect fit based on the number of letters you need.
Solutions for "small drum crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BONGO: One of a pair of small, single-headed drums, typically held between the knees and played with the fingers.
TABOR: A small medieval drum, often played with one hand while the other plays a pipe or flute.
6 Letters
TOMTOM: A small, often cylindrical drum, usually played with sticks as part of a drum kit.
7 Letters
DARBUKA: A goblet-shaped hand drum popular in Middle Eastern, North African, and Balkan music.
More About "small drum crossword clue"
The clue "small drum" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing due to the variety of short, distinct drum names available. These instruments, ranging from percussive elements in a band to traditional folk instruments, offer a rich vocabulary for puzzle constructors.
When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a musical theme? A general knowledge puzzle? The answer might be a common drum kit component like a TOMTOM, or a more exotic hand drum such as a BONGO or a DARBUKA. Sometimes, historical or regional drums like the TABOR are also valid solutions.
Remember that crosswords often play on common associations. Small drums are typically portable, played by hand, or used for specific rhythmic patterns rather than primary beat-keeping. This knowledge can help you deduce the correct answer even when you're unsure of the exact word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from crossing words to narrow down possibilities for "small drum." This is often the quickest way to confirm an answer.
- Consider Letter Count: The number of boxes provided is your most crucial hint. Filter potential answers by their exact letter count, as demonstrated in our answer section above.
- Think Broadly About "Small": "Small" can imply size, but also a specific role (e.g., a "side" drum). Don't limit your thinking to just physical dimensions.
- Look for Plurals: Sometimes, a singular clue like "small drum" might have a plural answer if the instrument is typically found in pairs (like BONGOs). However, in strict terms, the singular "BONGO" is also valid for one drum.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of small drums are commonly found in crossword puzzles?
Common answers for 'small drum' clues include TOMTOM, BONGO, TABOR, and sometimes SNARE or KETTLEDRUM depending on the context. These terms are popular due to their varying letter lengths and widespread recognition.
How can I identify a drum-related crossword answer?
Look for clues that hint at percussive instruments, musical contexts, or specific drum types. The number of letters, intersecting words, and the puzzle's theme can help narrow down the possibilities. If the clue mentions a 'small' or 'hand' drum, focus on terms like BONGO or TABOR.
Are there regional variations for drum clues?
While many drum terms are universal, some puzzles, particularly those with a strong cultural or historical theme, might feature less common or regionally specific drums like the DARBUKA (Middle Eastern) or the BODHRAN (Irish). Always consider the puzzle's origin or theme for nuanced clues.