Pronunciation: [dɹˈʌmhɛd] (IPA) 
The word "drumhead" is spelled as /ˈdrʌmˌhɛd/. The IPA phonetic transcription helps us understand how each sound is pronounced. The initial sound /d/ is followed by the vowel sound /ʌ/ and then the consonant sound /m/. The second syllable starts with the consonant sound /h/ and ends with the vowel sound /ɛ/ and the consonant sound /d/. The word "drumhead" refers to the top part of a drum that is struck by the drumstick.
Drumhead is a noun that can refer to two distinct meanings.
Firstly, a drumhead is the traditional term used to describe the membrane or head that covers the top of a drum, typically made of animal skin or synthetic material, which is stretched tightly across the shell or frame of the drum. The drumhead is responsible for producing sound when struck by drumsticks, mallets, or hands. It is usually tightened or loosened to adjust the pitch and tone of the drum. Drumheads are an essential component of various types of drums, including snare drums, bass drums, and tom-toms.
Secondly, drumhead can also refer to a specific type of meeting or court-martial held during times of war or military conflict. In this context, a drumhead usually refers to a makeshift tribunal or council of war, typically conducted in the field of battle, where swift justice or decisions are made. The term originated from the practice of placing a drumhead, symbolizing a makeshift table or platform, as a physical representation of the authority and power held by the presiding officers during such meetings.
Overall, "drumhead" can either refer to the membrane covering a drum or to a swift military tribunal or meeting conducted in the field of battle.
The word "drumhead" has its origins in the Middle English term "drummeheved" or "drumme-heved", which existed as early as the 14th century. The word is a compound of "drum" and "head".
"Drum" itself comes from the Old English word "drum" or "drom", which referred to a musical instrument particularly with a hollow sound. This root word can be traced back to the Old High German word "trumm", meaning "drum" or "trumpet".
The term "head" in this context refers to the top or upper part of an object, and it comes from the Old English word "heafod".
Thus, the etymology of "drumhead" implies referring to the top part or surface of a drum.
