1. plural of sistrum; ancient Egyptian percussion instruments consisting of a metal frame with loose metal pieces that rattle when shaken
Usage: historical; musical instrument

Examples

• The archaeologists discovered several bronze sistrums in the temple ruins.
• Ancient Egyptian priestesses used sistrums during religious ceremonies.
• The museum’s collection includes beautifully decorated sistrums from the New Kingdom period.
• Musicians shook the sistrums to create rhythmic accompaniment for sacred dances.
• The sistrums found in Hathor’s temple were made of silver and gold.
• Researchers studied the construction techniques used to make these ancient sistrums.