drum up

verb

1. (tr, adverb) to evoke or obtain (support, business, etc) by solicitation or canvassing

Idioms and Phrases

Bring about by persistent effort, as in I'm trying to drum up more customers , or We have to drum up support for this amendment . This expression alludes to making repeated drumbeats. [Mid-1800s]

Devise, invent, obtain, as in He hoped to drum up an alibi . [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

His group, Patriotic Millionaires UK, is touring this autumn's political conferences to drum up support for higher taxes on the wealthy.

From BBC

Both countries are now using issues like this to try to drum up international sympathy.

From BBC

Solis’ position as a powerful county supervisor, along with her years of name recognition, would give her a strong advantage in drumming up money and endorsements.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite previous female-only lawn mower races drumming up interest in the sport, Winchester a is the only woman taking part in this year's race.

From BBC

It has dismissed any talk of a Chinese invasion as a pretext manufactured by those in favour of Taiwan independence to drum up support.

From BBC

Related Words

• canvass 
• solicit