‖ crotalum Antiq.
(ˈkrɒtələm)
[L.; a. Gr. κρόταλον clapper, castanet, rattle.]
A sort of clapper or castanet used in ancient Greece and elsewhere in religious dances.
| 1727–51 Chambers Cycl. s.v., The crotalum..consisted of two little brass plates, or rods, which were shaken in the hand. 1822 T. Taylor Apuleius ix. 194, I was again led forth to the journey..accompanied by crotala and cymbals. 1864 Engel Mus. Anc. Nat. 225 Crotala, clappers, or castanets, were made use of by most ancient nations in religious performances. |