Definition of klezmer

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klez·mer    (klzmr) KEY 

NOUN:
pl. klez·mo·rim  (klzm-rm) KEY 

1. A traditionally itinerant Jewish folk musician of eastern Europe performing in a small band, as at weddings.
2. The Jewish folk music played by small, traditionally itinerant bands.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Yiddish, from Mishnaic Hebrew klê zemer, musical instruments : klê, pl. bound form of klî, instrument; see kll in Semitic roots + zemer, music, song; see zmr in Semitic roots