Drumming: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically refers to the act of playing drums or the sound produced by drums in a musical setting.

• The drumming performance was the highlight of the evening.
• She has been learning drumming for over three years now.

Used in a musical context to talk about instruments that produce sound when struck, such as drums, cymbals, and xylophones.

• The orchestra's percussion section played beautifully.
• He specializes in percussion instruments, particularly the marimba.

Generally used to describe the sound of someone hitting an object repeatedly or to describe a physical punishment. It can have a negative connotation when referring to physical violence.

• They heard a beating on the door in the middle of the night.
• Unfortunately, he received a beating for breaking the rules.

Refers to the pattern of sounds and silences in music or any repeated pattern of movement or sound.

• The rhythm of the song was very catchy.
• Dancers need to have a good sense of rhythm to perform well.

When referring to the act of playing a drum or producing rhythmic sounds, especially in a musical or organized context.

• The band's drumming was extraordinary
• He listened to the drumming of the tribal music

Used when describing the act of striking something repeatedly, often with the intention of producing a sound but can also imply violence, thus sometimes carrying a negative connotation.

• She could hear the beating of the drums from afar
• The beating of his heart grew louder

Refers to gentle, intermittent knocking or striking, often done with the fingertips. This word is less intense and can often imply impatience or a light, repetitive action.

• She was tapping her foot to the music
• The tapping on the window caught his attention

Typically used to describe a series of sharp, quick sounds, most often associated with knocking on doors or windows.

• He heard a rapping at the door late at night
• The rapping on the table signaled the start of the meeting