ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ noun
1. : a percussion instrument that consists of a hollow brass or copper hemisphere with a parchment head the tension of which can be changed by hand screws or foot pedal to vary the pitch, that is played with a pair of sticks with large padded heads, and that is used in pairs, threes, or fours of different sizes in both orchestra and concert band — see timpani
2. obsolete : kettledrummer
3. : an informal party at which light refreshments are usually served
[s]kettledr.jpg[/s]