A washboard, also called a frottoir, is a percussion instruments played by tapping, strumming or stroking it. It is a solid, wood frame with a ribbed surface made of steel. It is played in the traditional way by stroking its ribbed surface with the fingers. It can be strummed using a thimble to achieve a variety of sounds.
The washboard is popularly used in old time, jazz, Cajun, and skiffle music. Originally an instrument for washing clothes, it has evolved into a unique musical instrument.
