cymba

Cymba is a term that can refer to several things, most notably a type of musical instrument and a genus of insects.

In music, a cymba (plural cymbae or cymbalum) is a medieval stringed instrument, a type of dulcimer. It was played by striking the strings with small hammers or mallets. The cymba was a precursor to the modern hammered dulcimer and zither. Its construction typically involved a trapezoidal soundbox with numerous strings stretched across it. The instrument's resonance and versatility made it popular in various European musical traditions during the Middle Ages. While the term itself is ancient, its specific form and usage evolved over time.

In entomology, Cymba is a genus of moths belonging to the family Geometridae. These moths are characterized by their wing patterns, which often mimic leaves or bark, providing camouflage. Species within the genus Cymba are found in various parts of the world, and their life cycles and ecological roles are subjects of scientific study. The larvae, like other geometrid moths, often exhibit a characteristic "looping" locomotion. Further research is ongoing to fully understand the diversity and distribution of Cymba moths.