strum

¹ American  

[struhm] / strʌm /

verb (used with object)

strummed, strumming

1. to play on (a stringed musical instrument) by running the fingers lightly across the strings.

2. to produce (notes, a melody, etc.) by such playing.

   to strum a tune.

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verb (used without object)

strummed, strumming

1. to play on a stringed musical instrument by running the fingers lightly across the strings.

noun

1. the act of strumming.

2. the sound produced by strumming.

strum ² American  

[struhm] / strʌm /

noun

1. a strainer, as at the inlet of a system of tubing.

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strum British  

/ strʌm /

verb

1. to sound (the strings of a guitar, banjo, etc) with a downward or upward sweep of the thumb or of a plectrum

2. to play (chords, a tune, etc) in this way

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Other Word Forms

• strummer noun

Etymology

Origin of strum¹

1765–75; perhaps blend of string and thrum ¹

Origin of strum¹

Origin uncertain

Example Sentences

Livingston began to strum his guitar and sing.

From Literature

The score is a comical barrage of harp strums, as if heaven’s angels have gotten good and drunk.

From Los Angeles Times

Leo strums a couple of chords and smiles.

From Literature

We hear a Fender Rhodes piano, strummed electric guitar and a spare trumpet, conjuring images of a late night in a smoky club.

From The Wall Street Journal

Watching the sky turn pink at the end of the day, I sit on the balcony and sing the song that brought me to Cuba, strumming on Mima’s oud.

From Literature