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drum

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /drʌm/

KK: /drʌm/

intransitive verb
Definition

To play a percussion instrument by hitting it with sticks or hands, creating a rhythmic sound.


Example

He loves to drum along with his favorite songs.


Tense Forms

Past: drummed

Past Participle: drummed


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear him drum on the table during the meeting?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was pretty distracting, wasn't it?
Sloth A
I thought it was funny how he just kept drumming away without noticing.
Sloth B
Definitely! He seemed so focused, like he was in his own little world.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
beat
tap
thump
Antonyms
silence
quiet
still
noun
Definition

A musical instrument that you hit with your hands or sticks to make a sound, usually shaped like a cylinder or a bowl.


Example

The band played a lively rhythm on the drum during the parade.


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard a really cool drum solo at the concert last night.
Sloth B
That sounds awesome! I love live music.
Sloth A
Yeah, the energy from the drum was incredible.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To play a rhythm or beat on a drum or to make a sound similar to that of a drum.


Example

He drummed a catchy tune on the table during the meeting.


Tense Forms

Past: drummed

Past Participle: drummed


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard you drummed the schedule into your team’s minds during practice.
Sloth B
Yeah, I wanted to make sure everyone knew what to expect.
Sloth A
That’s a smart approach; I've seen teams get confused without clear plans.
Root Explanation

The word 'drum' originates from Middle Dutch 'tromme', which means a type of percussion instrument. It refers specifically to a hollow object that produces sound when struck.

Memory Tip

Think of the Middle Dutch word 'tromme' for a percussion instrument — this helps you remember that a drum is a hollow object that makes sound when you hit it.

Visually Confused Words
rum
dum
dorsum
dirdum
Is this page helpful?
Nothing beats the sound of a live drum in a band.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
timbale
bongos
cajon
Antonyms
silence
quiet
stillness
Sloth B
Exactly, it’s better to drum it in than to leave things up in the air.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
beat
thump
pound
Antonyms
ignore
neglect
dismiss