Marimbas are percussion instruments that produce music through the use of wooden bars that are struck with mallets. While the word marimba is commonly used to describe this specific type of instrument, there are other terms that can be used as synonyms. Some potential alternatives include xylophones, vibraphones, and glockenspiels, all of which utilize similar methods to produce sound. Other related terms might include tonal percussion or keyboard percussion, as these refer to any instruments that are played by striking keys or bars. Ultimately, regardless of the specific term used, marimbas and similar instruments can add rich and vibrant sounds to musical compositions of all kinds.