theremin

/ˈθɛrəˌmɪn/

Other forms: theremins

A theremin is an electronic musical instrument that makes a strange, eerie sound when you move your hands near it. The theremin is distinctive for being the only musical instrument that a player never touches.

A thereminist plays by moving their hands close to, but not touching, the theremin's two oscillating antennas. These hand movements change the instrument's pitch and volume by interfering with the frequency of radio waves. The instrument is named for its inventor, Léon Thérémin, a Russian scientist and KGB spy.

Definitions of theremin

1. noun

   an electronic musical instrument; melodies can be played by moving the right hand between two rods that serve as antennas to control pitch; the left hand controls phrasing
   type of:

   electronic instrument, electronic musical instrument

   a musical instrument that generates sounds electronically