1. a rattle or percussion instrument consisting of a handle with a hollow gourd or sphere containing seeds or beads, used in Latin American and Caribbean music
Usage: also spelled maracas (plural form more common); often used in pairs; from Spanish/Portuguese origin

Examples

• The dancer shook the maraka rhythmically to the beat of the drums.
• She learned to play the maraka as part of her Latin dance class.
• The band's percussionist added texture with bright maraka sounds.
• Children enjoyed making their own marakas from plastic bottles and rice.
• The maraka is a staple instrument in salsa and merengue music.