Word Study
sistrum
CIDE DICTIONARY
sistrum, [L., fr. Gr. , from to shake.].
An instrument consisting of a thin metal frame, through which passed a number of metal rods, and furnished with a handle by which it was shaken and made to rattle. It was peculiarly Egyptian, and used especially in the worship of Isis. It is still used in Nubia. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
sistrum, n. (pl. sistra) a jingling metal instrument used by the ancient Egyptians esp. in the worship of Isis.
Etymology
ME f. L f. Gk seistron f. seio shake
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