According to the Encyclopedia Smithsonian, the name dulcimer is derived from the Latin and Greek words dulce and melo. When combined, the words translate to sweet tune.
The hammer dulcimer generally consists of a trapezoid-shaped wooden box with strings stretched over bridges that run across the sound board. It is played by striking the strings with small wooden hammers.
Also known as the Appalachian dulcimer, this instrument is smaller than its trapezoid-shaped cousin, resembles the southern Appalachian zither and is usually plucked or strummed while stretched across the musician's lap.
Both dulcimer types provide a very gentle sound. The hammer dulcimer works well as a lead instrument, and its sound may be described as a cross between piano and harp. The multiple strings of a mountain dulcimer resonate more quietly, but drone somewhat like bagpipes.
Both classes of dulcimer are folk instruments and therefore, work well in groups featuring other acoustic instruments, such as the guitar, mandolin and fiddle.