toms

Toms refers to several different concepts depending on context. In music, tom-toms are a family of percussion drums that form part of many drum kits and marching bands. They are typically cylindrical, with single or double drumheads, and are tuned to distinct pitches. The plural “toms” is used when discussing multiple drums of this type.

In zoology and animal husbandry, a tom is a mature male of certain species. The best-known examples are the male turkey, commonly called a tom, and the male cat, often referred to as a tom or tomcat. The plural “toms” describes more than one such animal.

In onomastics and everyday usage, Tom is a common given name derived from Thomas. In some regions, including parts of Eastern Europe and the Baltic states, “Toms” is used as a given name as well. It can also appear as a surname in various cultures. People named Tom or Toms are found across many countries and languages, and the plural form may refer to multiple individuals sharing the name.

Because “toms” can refer to very different things—musical instruments, male animals, or personal names—the intended meaning depends on the surrounding context.