tuba

noun

tu·​ba ˈtü-bə How to pronounce tuba (audio)
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 How to pronounce tuba (audio)
ˈtyü-
noun
or tubist
ˈtü-bist How to pronounce tuba (audio)
ˈtyü-

Illustration of tuba

Illustration of tuba

Examples of tuba in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Broussard got to work, first becoming a fulltime non-traditional college student and then picking up the tuba for the first time in several decades. — Stephanie Gallman Jordan, Southern Living, 10 Sep. 2025 Of course, with the reach of the Mexican diaspora, at least one business serves tuba in Los Angeles. — Daniel Hernandez, Los Angeles Times, 24 June 2026 The euphonium, a tenor tuba, shifts among moods solemn, restless, agitated, triumphant and reflective. — Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 23 Jan. 2026 The ever-present tuba, trumpets, clarinets, snare drums and, of course, the tambora drum adorn each of the 10 songs produced by Jesús Tirado. — Tere Aguilera, Billboard, 13 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for tuba

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Latin, trumpet

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of tuba was in 1852

Rhymes for tuba

See All Rhymes for tuba

Browse Nearby Words

tub
tuba
Tuba Clarion
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tuba.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tuba. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

tuba

noun
tu·​ba ˈt(y)ü-bə How to pronounce tuba (audio)
: a brass musical instrument of lowest pitch with an oval shape and valves for producing different tones

More from Merriam-Webster on tuba

Nglish: Translation of tuba for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about tuba

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