A percussion instrument of indefinite pitch consisting of a circular concave brass plate that makes a loud clashing tone when hit with a drumstick or when used in pairs. Used for special orchestral effects, cymbals are also a standard part of the drum set used for jazz and popular music. Originating in the Near East around Biblical times, they have spread throughout the Far East as well as Europe. [from Old English and Old French cymbale, Latin cymbalum]