sistrum Meaning, Definition & Usage

Sis"trum
Etymology
L., fr. Gr. , from to shake.
Definitions
  1. (Mus.) An instrument consisting of a thin metal frame, through which passed a number of metal rods, and furnished with a handle by which it was shaken and made to rattle. It was peculiarly Egyptian, and used especially in the worship of Isis. It is still used in Nubia.

Webster 1913