Strummed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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strummed

[strสŒmd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

making music

Strummed refers to producing sound by playing a stringed instrument with a sweeping motion of the fingers or a plectrum. This technique is commonly associated with guitars but can apply to other stringed instruments as well. Strumming can create a rhythmic pattern that is integral to many musical styles, including folk, rock, and pop. Musicians often strum chords in a continuous motion, allowing for a fuller sound in their performance.

Synonyms

picked, played, plucked.

Examples of usage

  • She strummed the guitar at the campfire.
  • He strummed a soothing melody on his ukulele.
  • They strummed their way through a lively song.
  • The musician strummed the strings passionately.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Music History

  • Strings have been used in music for over 3,000 years, with the earliest instruments resembling modern guitars appearing in ancient cultures.
  • Strumming techniques in guitar playing have influenced popular music genres, including rock, folk, and blues, shaping the soundtracks of generations.
  • Famous musicians like Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan utilized unique strumming patterns to create iconic songs that are still celebrated today.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of strumming is associated with communal gatherings, often where songs are shared and celebrations occur.
  • Strumming is not only limited to guitars; ukuleles and mandolins also employ this technique, making music more accessible.
  • Around the world, strumming styles vary, reflecting the cultural diversity in how music is created and enjoyed.

Psychology of Music

  • Engaging in music, like strumming, can lead to cognitive benefits, including improved memory and enhanced mood due to the release of dopamine.
  • Strumming can also serve as a stress-relief technique, allowing individuals to express emotions and improve mental health.
  • Learning to strum can enhance coordination and fine motor skills, particularly beneficial for children and young adults.

Origin of 'strummed'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'strum' comes from the Middle English word 'strom,' which means 'to cause to vibrate or sound.'
  • Related to the word 'strum', is the Old English 'swegan,' meaning 'to make sound' or 'to sing,' indicating a long history of musical terminology.
  • The modern usage of 'strummed' evolved in the 19th century, coinciding with the popularity of guitars and other stringed instruments.

The word "strummed" is derived from the verb "strum," which has its etymological roots in the early 17th century. It is believed to have originated from the Middle Low German word "strummen," meaning to strum or stroke. The term relates closely to the action of manipulating stringed instruments, typically involving an upward or downward motion of the fingers across the strings. Strumming as a technique became formalized with the rise of various stringed instruments in Western music, especially during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. As music evolved, so did the technique of strumming, with musicians exploring different styles and patterns to create varying effects and rhythms. In contemporary music, strumming remains a fundamental technique used by guitarists and other stringed instrument players worldwide.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,765, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.