strum

¹

[ struhm ]

verb (used with object)

, strummed, strum·ming.

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.

verb (used without object)

, strummed, strum·ming.

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

[ struhm ]

noun

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

strum

/ 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

Derived Forms

• ˈstrummer, noun

Other Words From

• strummer noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of strum¹

1765–75; perhaps blend of string and thrum ¹

Origin of strum²

Origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of strum¹

C18: probably of imitative origin; see thrum ¹