A drum that has a drumhead width greater than its depth, usually constructed with a round, wooden frame. Usually the single drumhead is made of rawhide or man-made materials. Shells are traditionally constructed of bent wood (rosewood, oak, ash, etc.) scarf-jointed together; plywood and man-made materials are also used. Some frame drums have mechanical tuning and on many the drumhead is stretched and tacked in place. Metal rings or jingles may also be attached to the frame.

Frame drums are the earliest type of skin drum known to have existed. Examples are found in many places and cultures.