zill

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun one of a pair of small metallic cymbals worn on the thumb and middle finger; used in belly dancing in rhythm with the dance

From Ottoman Turkish زل (zil).

I certainly intend to report you, and we’ll see,’ I said, ‘whether a lady is to be insulted by any drunken bum that chooses to put on a ragged uniform, and I’d thank you,’ I said, ‘to keep your filthy abuse to yourself.’ And then I waited for Paul to show he was half a man and come to my defense, and he just stood there and pretended he hadn’t heard a word, and so I said to him, ‘Well,’ I said--” “Oh, cut it, cut it, Zill!” Paul groaned. — Babbitt, Sinclair Lewis

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