Theme: Things That Make Noise

From musical instruments and alarms to household machines and construction equipment, these nine things are all known for the sounds they make.

9 themed words All 26 letters covered Vowels shown in gold Consonants hidden in blue
1
    U  
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  1. This instrument is played by striking a stretched surface.
  2. It helps provide rhythm in many styles of music.
  3. It may be played with sticks, hands, or mallets.
  4. Its sound can range from a soft tap to a booming beat.
Reveal answer
D R U M
Background information
A drum produces sound when its stretched membrane vibrates after being struck.
2
  O    
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  1. This metal percussion instrument is struck with a mallet.
  2. It produces a resonant sound that can linger.
  3. Large versions can be extremely loud.
  4. It is used in music, ceremonies, and signaling.
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G O N G
Background information
A gong is a metal percussion instrument whose broad surface vibrates to produce a deep, resonant sound.
3
  U     E  
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  1. Makes a sharp sound to signal or get attention.
  2. It is commonly used in games and alert systems.
  3. Pressing a button may activate it.
  4. Its name comes from the kind of sound it often produces.
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B U Z Z E R
Background information
A buzzer is an electrical or electronic signaling device that produces an audible alert.
4
  A   U U  
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  1. This household appliance removes dust and debris.
  2. Its motor and moving air create a noticeable sound.
  3. It is commonly pushed across floors and carpets.
  4. Some models are designed to operate more quietly than others.
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V A C U U M
Background information
A vacuum cleaner creates noise from its motor, fan, and rapidly moving airflow while collecting dirt.
5
    I       E
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  1. Air passing through this object creates a piercing tone.
  2. Referees often use one during sports.
  3. It can be used for signaling over a distance.
  4. Some versions are built into kettles.
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W H I S T L E
Background information
A whistle produces sound by directing a stream of air across an opening or edge.
6
    U E A     O  
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  1. Makes a high-pitched sound when squeezed or bitten.
  2. It is commonly given to pets.
  3. A small sound-producing insert is often hidden inside.
  4. Pressure forces air through its internal noisemaker.
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S Q U E A K T O Y
Background information
A squeak toy contains a small mechanism that produces a high-pitched sound when the object is compressed.
7
  I   E A   A    
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  1. Makes a loud warning sound when smoke or fire is detected.
  2. It is an important building safety device.
  3. Its sound is intended to attract immediate attention.
  4. Some systems combine audible and visual alerts.
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F I R E A L A R M
Background information
A fire alarm system warns occupants of a possible fire, commonly using loud audible signals and sometimes flashing lights.
8
      O     O   E
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  1. Makes musical notes when its bars are struck.
  2. Its bars are arranged by pitch.
  3. It is played with mallets.
  4. Different bar lengths produce different notes.
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X Y L O P H O N E
Background information
A xylophone is a percussion instrument with tuned bars that sound when struck with mallets.
9
  A       A     E  
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  1. A powerful tool that makes a loud pounding noise while breaking concrete.
  2. It delivers rapid repeated impacts.
  3. It is often heard at construction sites.
  4. Hearing protection is commonly used around it.
Reveal answer
J A C K H A M M E R
Background information
A jackhammer is a powered percussion tool that repeatedly drives a bit into hard material such as concrete or rock.

Noise Trivia

🥁 Vibrating Membrane
A drum makes sound when a stretched membrane vibrates and moves the surrounding air.
🚨 Warning Sound
Fire alarms are designed to be conspicuous so people can quickly recognize and respond to an emergency warning.
🎶 Tuned Bars
Xylophone bars are tuned to specific pitches, with their dimensions helping determine the notes they produce.
🏗️ Rapid Impacts
Jackhammers break hard surfaces through a rapid series of powerful impacts, which also makes them exceptionally noisy tools.