How Do You Spell TOMTOM?

Pronunciation: [tˈɒmtəm] (IPA)

The word "tomtom" is often misspelled as "tamtam." However, the correct spelling is "tomtom," with a double "t." This is because the word originates from the West African language Wolof, where it is spelled "tambour," meaning "drum." The correct pronunciation is /ˈtɒm.tɒm/, with a stress on the first syllable and a short "o" sound in both syllables. The spelling of "tomtom" reflects the phonetic transcription of the Wolof language, which does not use the letter "a" in the word for "drum."

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Similar spelling word
Plural
Basic Check Advanced Check

TOMTOM Meaning and Definition

  1. A tomtom refers to a percussion instrument of African origin, typically consisting of a hollow wooden drum with a single drumhead made from animal skin or synthetic material stretched tightly over one end. The drumhead is secured to the frame of the drum with a series of tension ropes, leather straps, or metal hoops to ensure proper tuning and resonance. Tomtoms can vary in size and shape, with some being cylindrical and others having an hourglass-like figure.

    The tomtom holds significant cultural and musical value in various African societies, often used in traditional ceremonies, rituals, and social gatherings. Its distinctive sound, produced by striking the drumhead with hands, sticks, or mallets, adds rhythmic layers and dynamic flair to tribal music and dances. Due to its versatile nature, the tomtom is also incorporated into contemporary music genres, such as jazz, rock, and folk, where it can be heard in both live performances and studio recordings.

    Beyond its musical attributes, the term "tomtom" may also refer to a brand name of consumer GPS navigation systems. TomTom is a prominent company that manufactures and sells portable navigation devices, GPS software, and related services for automotive, leisure, and business use. These devices are designed to assist users in navigating unfamiliar routes and locations, offering real-time directions, maps, voice instructions, and traffic information. TomTom has established itself as a trusted and well-known brand in the field of navigation technology, providing reliable and user-friendly solutions for personal and professional navigation needs.

Common Misspellings for TOMTOM

Etymology of TOMTOM

The word "tomtom" has different origins and meanings in various contexts:

1. Drum: The term "tomtom" originated in the mid-19th century from the Reduplicative formation "tom-tom". It most likely imitates the sound produced by a drum. This usage refers to various types of traditional drums, predominantly those used in indigenous cultures or associated with African or Native American traditions.

2. GPS Navigation Device: The etymology of the word "tomtom" for the GPS navigation device brand is unrelated to the drum. This modern use of "tomtom" comes from the phrase "tom-tom" used in British English slang, meaning "to move energetically" or "to hurry". The founders of the company TomTom, who were Dutch, adopted this term as the brand name for their navigation devices, reflecting the idea of guiding people to their destinations quickly and efficiently.

Similar spelling word for TOMTOM

  • Tom-tom.

Plural form of TOMTOM is TOMTOMS

Infographic

Correct spelling for tomtom
Add the infographic to your website: