noun

drum

drum, barrel, container

He plays the drums in a band.

He plays the drums in a band.

The oil is stored in a large drum.

The oil is stored in a large drum.

He began to drum his fingers on the table.

He began to drum his fingers on the table.

((a/the)) drum (noun) a percussion instrument He plays the drums in a band.

((a/the)) drum (noun) a large cylindrical container The oil is stored in a large drum.

((sth.)) (verb) to hit a surface repeatedly He began to drum his fingers on the table.

Synonyms: percussion, barrel, cask

From Middle Dutch 'tromme', likely of imitative origin, mimicking the sound.

Picture a drummer drumming on an oil drum. This helps remember both the instrument and container meanings.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.