bullroarer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2technical/archaeological, anthropological, historical
Quick answer
What does “bullroarer” mean?
A primitive musical and ritual instrument consisting of a flat slat of wood attached to a cord, which produces a roaring sound when whirled through the air.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A primitive musical and ritual instrument consisting of a flat slat of wood attached to a cord, which produces a roaring sound when whirled through the air.
Any device or phenomenon that produces a deep, roaring, or whirring sound. In modern contexts, it can metaphorically refer to something causing a loud commotion or disturbance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling or pronunciation differences. The term is equally specialist in both varieties.
Connotations
Identical connotations of ancient ritual, indigenous cultures, or primitive technology.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in both varieties, confined to academic or hobbyist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “bullroarer” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] bullroarer [VERBed] through the air.They used a bullroarer [PREP] the ceremony.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bullroarer” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The shaman bullroared to signal the start of the rite.
- He was bullroaring across the clearing.
American English
- The practitioner bullroared during the ceremony.
- She began bullroaring to call the spirits.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Never used.
Academic
Used in anthropology, archaeology, and musicology papers discussing ritual artefacts.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Precise term for a specific class of aerophonic (free aerophone) instruments.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bullroarer”
- Spelling as 'bull roarer' (two words) is common but the single-word form is standard. Confusing it with a 'rattle' or other shaken instrument.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is standardly written as one word: bullroarer.
Bullroarers have been used historically by Aboriginal Australian, Native American, African, and ancient European cultures, among others.
Yes, they are sold as musical novelties, educational tools, or ceremonial objects by specialty retailers.
It produces a rhythmic, droning roar. Its purpose is often ritualistic or signalling rather than melodic music.
A primitive musical and ritual instrument consisting of a flat slat of wood attached to a cord, which produces a roaring sound when whirled through the air.
Bullroarer is usually technical/archaeological, anthropological, historical in register.
Bullroarer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbʊlˌrɔːrə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbʊlˌrɔːrər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this highly specific term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a BULL roaring (BULLROARER) as you whirl the instrument, creating a deep, roaring sound.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOUND IS A LIVING BEAST (the roar).
Practice
Quiz
A bullroarer is primarily: