The dulcimer is a stringed instrument that has been used for centuries in many different cultures. It is typically played with hammers and has a distinctive sound. The term 'dulcimer' is derived from the Latin words for 'SWEET' and 'SONG'. The PSALTERY is a type of dulcimer that is plucked or strummed with a plectrum. The santir is a type of dulcimer that originated in India and is played with two sticks. The cimbalom is a type of dulcimer that originated in Hungary and is played with mallets. All three instruments are related to the dulcimer and share similar characteristics.