'glockenspiel' originates from German, specifically the word 'Glockenspiel', where 'Glocken' meant 'bells' and 'Spiel' meant 'play'.

'Glockenspiel' has remained largely unchanged from its German origins, retaining both its form and meaning in modern English.

Initially, it meant 'bell play', and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.