Drum Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drum

[drʌm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music instrument

A musical instrument made of a hollow shell with a membrane stretched tightly across one or both ends, played by beating with the hands or sticks.

Synonyms

percussion instrument, snare, tambour.

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Word Description / Examples
drum

General term for any cylindrical percussion instrument that produces sound by being struck. Can be used in both casual and formal contexts to describe a range of instruments.

  • He played the drum in the school band.
  • They bought a new drum for the music room.

Examples of usage

  • He played the drum at the concert.
  • The drummer set the rhythm with his drumming.
Context #2 | Verb

act of drumming

To play a drum or drums.

Synonyms

beat, strike, thump.

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Word Description / Examples
drum

Generally used when referring to the musical instrument or the act of playing it.

  • He can play the drum very well.
  • The drummer started to drum a catchy rhythm.
beat

Often used to describe the regular rhythm of music, heart, or repetitive hitting.

  • The beat of the music was infectious.
  • You could hear the beat of the drums from a distance.
  • Her heart began to beat faster.
strike

Commonly used to describe hitting something forcefully, either literally or figuratively.

  • He strike the drum with confidence.
  • Workers decided to strike for better pay.
  • The clock will strike twelve soon.
thump

Typically used to describe a dull, heavy sound made by hitting something, often giving a sense of heaviness or force.

  • He gave the door a loud thump.
  • You could hear the steady thump of the bass drum.
  • She felt a thump in her chest from the excitement.

Examples of usage

  • She learned to drum when she was a child.
  • The rain began to drum on the roof.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'drum'

The word 'drum' originated from Middle English 'drom', which came from Old English 'drum', of imitative origin. Drums have been used for thousands of years in various cultures around the world. They have played significant roles in rituals, ceremonies, communications, and music. The evolution of drums has led to the creation of diverse types and styles, each with its unique sound and cultural significance.


See also: drumming.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,566 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.