A "rattle" is a type of percussion instrument commonly used in various musical traditions. It typically consists of a hollow body filled with small objects, such as beads or seeds, that create sound when shaken. Rattles can be made from materials like wood, metal, or plastic and are often used in children's toys, as well as in cultural ceremonies. In the animal kingdom, a "rattle" refers to the sound produced by certain species, such as the rattlesnake. This sound is created by the rapid shaking of specialized segments at the end of the snake's tail, which serve as a warning to potential threats. The rattle is an important survival mechanism, helping to deter predators.