First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1thrum
noun \ˈthrəm\
Definition of THRUM
1
2
: a hair, fiber, or threadlike leaf on a plant; also : a tuft or fringe of such structures
— thrum adjective
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of THRUM
Middle English, from Old English -thrum (in tungethrum ligament of the tongue); akin to Old High German drum fragment
2thrum
transitive verb
thrummedthrum·ming
Definition of THRUM
2
: to insert short pieces of rope yarn or spun yarn in (a piece of canvas) to make a rough surface or a mat which can be wrapped about rigging to prevent chafing
First Known Use of THRUM
15th century
3thrum
verb
thrummedthrum·ming
Definition of THRUM
intransitive verb
1
: to play or pluck a stringed instrument idly : strum
2
: to sound with a monotonous hum
transitive verb
1
: to play (as a stringed instrument) in an idle or relaxed manner
2
: to recite tiresomely or monotonously
Origin of THRUM
imitative
First Known Use: 1592
4thrum
noun
THRUM Defined for Kids
thrum
verb \ˈthrəm\
thrummedthrum·ming
Definition of THRUM for Kids
: to play a stringed instrument idly : strum
Learn More About THRUM
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up thrum? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).