Pronunciation: [stɹˈʌm] (IPA) 
The word "strum" is spelled with five letters: s-t-r-u-m. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /strʌm/. The /s/ sound is followed by the /t/ sound, which is then followed by the vowel sound /ʌ/. The letter "u" represents a schwa sound, which is an unstressed vowel sound. The word ends with the consonant sound /m/. "Strum" refers to playing a stringed instrument by sweeping or plucking its strings with the fingers.
"Strum" is a verb that commonly refers to the act of playing a stringed musical instrument, such as a guitar or a banjo, by running one's fingers or a pick across the strings in a rhythmic fashion. The word can also be used metaphorically to describe any action or motion that resembles the act of strumming a musical instrument.
In a musical context, strumming involves sweeping one's hand or fingers across the strings, thereby producing a harmonious blend of sounds. It is typically accompanied by a rhythmic movement of the strummer's arm, wrist, or fingers. By varying the speed, force, and technique used while strumming, musicians can create different tones, volumes, and rhythms. Strumming can be done with a pick held between the thumb and index finger or solely with the fingers.
Figuratively, "strum" can refer to any gentle or rhythmic action, movement, or touch that resembles playing a musical instrument. For example, we might say that a person strums their fingers on a table or strums a pen while deep in thought. This non-literal use of the word is often used to describe repetitive or meditative motions.
In summary, "strum" primarily refers to the rhythmic action of playing a stringed musical instrument, particularly a guitar or banjo, by running one's fingers or a pick across the strings. However, it can also be used metaphorically to describe similar rhythmic actions or motions in a non-musical context.
To thump or make a noise; to play badly on an instr.; to play in a coarse noisy way, as on a piano.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "strum" is derived from the Middle English word "strem" or "strum", which was originally used in the 14th century. However, it is believed to have been borrowed from Germanic languages, particularly Old High German "struzam" or Middle High German "struzen", meaning "to strum". The exact origin of these Germanic words is uncertain, but they are believed to be onomatopoeic, reflecting the sound produced by strumming or plucking strings. Over time, "strum" has become commonly used to describe the action of rhythmically playing or sweeping across the strings of a musical instrument, often a guitar.
