A type of cymbal that is a standard part of most drum kits. It is accompanied by and foot pedal that is used in "Opening" or "Closing" it. When struck, it makes either a short, snappy sound or an longer sustaining sandy sound depending on the positing of its footpedal. It can be also played by lifting and lowering the foot a style commonly used in jazz music.
In rock or jazz, the Hi-hat cymbal is often struck regularly as part of the standard accompaniment pattern to the song. Often the drummer will vary between the same pattern either on the hi-hat cymbal or the ride cymbal.