strum
verb (used with object)
to play on (a stringed musical instrument) by running the fingers lightly across the strings.
strummed
-
past participleof strum.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof strum.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
strumverb (used with object)to play on (a stringed musical instrument) by running the fingers lightly across the strings.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Over a wheezing harmonica and lightly strummed guitar, the title character sets out on a journey to avenge the death of her father.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 4, 2026
String quartets strummed their way through classical covers of pop hits.
From Salon ● Mar. 4, 2026
It's used to heart-wrenching effect on their debut album, singing of the physical ache of unrequited love, over delicately strummed guitars and brushed drums.
From BBC ● Sep. 10, 2025
It’s a song about surrender and, most importantly, hope, that rests entirely on his strummed acoustic guitar and determined, dusty voice.
From New York Times ● Mar. 6, 2024
He could almost feel the vibrations of the grunts that thumped and strummed like a bass.
From "Clayton Byrd Goes Underground" by Rita Williams-Garcia
