Synonyms for

Drums

Verb / drʌmz / Another word for drums — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Drums are musical instruments that are played by hitting them with drumsticks or hands.

Synonyms & similar words

barrel drum swotup membranophone boneup grindaway swot mugup drumfish getup bone metaldrum beat cram thrum tympan brakedrum percussion snare tympani timbales bongos congas kit beat rhythm cadence tattoo roll thump pound bang strike knock tap

Synonyms by register

Formal

percussion instruments

Informal

beats rhythm thumpers

Literary

timpani tabors

Antonyms

silence quiet stillness calm peace hush

Common collocations

  • play the drums
  • drum kit
  • drum solo
  • drum machine
  • drum beat
  • drum stick
  • drum roll

Word family

noun drum
verb drum
adjective drumming

Usage note

While 'drums' can refer to individual percussion instruments, it is most commonly used to refer to a drum kit or the general concept of percussion in music. Avoid using 'drums' for single, non-musical containers unless the context is very clear.

Example sentences

  1. She plays the drums in the school band.
  2. My cousin has a drum set in his room.
  3. The sound of the drums filled the room.
  4. He learned how to play the drums from his dad.
  5. The drummer hit the drums with all his might.

Quotes

  • The drum is the pulse of life.
  • The drums were the heartbeat of our tribe.
  • The best drummer in the world is the one who can keep the beat.

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