drum up

idiom

The phrase "drum up" originates from the historical practice of using a drum to gather people, but it now broadly refers to generating interest or support.

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Definition

B2General

(common, informal)To generate or increase interest, support, or enthusiasm for something through active effort.

Example

The company tried to drum up support for its new product by offering discounts.
She managed to drum up enough enthusiasm to get everyone involved in the project.

C1Historical

(historical)To summon or call people by beating a drum.

Example

In medieval times, townspeople were often drummed up for important announcements.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "drum up":

gin up scare up conjure up stir up dredge up whip up trump up rake up churn up drag up kick up cook up talk up work up hype up amp up strike up cure up play up gen up call forth draw up crank up pluck up brew up bring up kick up dust come up with vamp up dig up pump up fetch up ruffle up scrump up run up ring up rark up ramp up fire up jack up come up prime the pump