Pair of cymbals with a foot pedal

HI-HAT

This percussion piece sits at the drummer’s left and can be played closed, open, or somewhere in between for a shimmering effect. Often called the "heartbeat" of a drum kit.

This clue describes a standard drum kit component: two small cymbals mounted on a stand, controlled by a foot pedal that opens and closes them. The name "hi-hat" comes from how the cymbals "open" (hi) and "close" (hat) when played, creating a crisp, rhythmic sound. It’s a direct definition with no wordplay—just a straightforward reference to the instrument’s function and design. Drummers use it to keep time or add texture to beats.