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What is the Meaning of “Drum”?

Drum
/drʌm/

A round musical instrument that you hit with sticks or your hands to make sounds.

Definition of Drum

Quick Meaning of Drum

A round musical instrument that you hit with sticks or your hands to make sounds.

Detailed Definition of Drum

A percussion instrument made of a hollow cylinder with a tight skin stretched across it, played by hitting with sticks or hands.

How to Pronounce Drum

IPA: /drʌm/
drum

Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).

Tip: One syllable: DRUM. Rhymes with 'come', 'some', and 'hum'.

Full pronunciation guide for “drum” →

Origin and Etymology of Drum

From Middle Dutch 'dromme', related to Old High German 'trumma'.

How to Use Drum in a Sentence

Each example shows “drum” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “The drummer played the drums loudly in the concert.”
    A1 daily
  • “She learned to play the drum when she was young.”
    A2 daily
  • “The drum set included a bass drum and cymbals.”
    A2 conversation

Synonyms and Antonyms of Drum

Common Synonyms for Drum

Smart Synonyms for Drum — When to Use Each

percussion
general term for all rhythm instruments
timpani
classical drums used in orchestras

See all synonyms for “drum” →

Common Collocations with Drum

These phrases pair with “drum” in everyday English:

  • play the drum
  • drum set
  • drum stick
  • bass drum
  • beating a drum

Common Mistakes When Using Drum

Even fluent speakers slip up with “drum”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: She drums on the table very good.
✓ Correct: She drums on the table very well.
Why: Use adverb 'well' not adjective 'good' after action verbs.
✗ Wrong: The drums are sounding loud in the room.
✓ Correct: The drums sound loud in the room.
Why: Use simple present 'sound' not continuous form for descriptions.

Other Forms of Drum

Frequently Asked Questions About Drum

What is the meaning of "Drum"?

A round musical instrument that you hit with sticks or your hands to make sounds.

How do you pronounce "Drum"?

The IPA is /drʌm/. One syllable: DRUM. Rhymes with 'come', 'some', and 'hum'.

What part of speech is "Drum"?

"Drum" is a noun at A1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Drum"?

Common synonyms include percussion, timpani, tom-tom.

How do you use "Drum" in a sentence?

For example: "The drummer played the drums loudly in the concert."

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