Etymology

Noun

1. An ancient Egyptian musical instrument, to be shaken, consisting of a metal frame holding percussive metal beads.
   • 1983, Norman Mailer, Ancient Evenings:

     She moved with slow undulations of her body as lascivious as the curve of Hathfertiti’s hair, and the sistrum with its singing wires was played by a dwarf wearing nothing but a gold purse and a few bracelets on his stunted biceps.