tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈtü-bə 

ˈtyü-

: a large low-pitched brass instrument usually oval in shape and having a conical tube, a cup-shaped mouthpiece, and a usual range an octave lower than that of the euphonium

tubaist

ˈtü-bə(-i)st 

ˈtyü-

noun

or tubist

ˈtü-bist 

ˈtyü-

Illustration of tuba

Examples of tuba in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

At the corner of St. Peter and Royal Streets, a tuba begins its rumbling and a trombone squeals; the instruments sparkle in the sunlight, glinting gold amid a gathering crowd. —Caroline Rogers, Southern Living, 25 Nov. 2024

Born in 1938, Flowers became a musician in the Royal Air Force during the 1950s, playing tuba and taking up double bass as a secondary instrument. —Jem Aswad, Variety, 8 Sep. 2024

John Philip Pseudo My tuba is too heavy, and my outfit is too hot. —Alexandra Petri, Washington Post, 2 July 2024

Guests arriving at Hollywood’s nya Studios West for YouTube’s second Leaders and Legends gala were greeted by a lively five-piece band (including a tuba) in homage to the brothers’ New Orleans roots. —Gail Mitchell, Billboard, 28 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin, trumpet

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈt(y)ü-bə 

: a brass musical instrument of lowest pitch with an oval shape and valves for producing different tones