Drums have deep cultural significance in China. 锣鼓 (luógǔ, gongs and drums) are essential for festivals, lion dances, and dragon boat races. The 鼓楼 (gǔlóu, Drum Tower) was historically used to mark time in Chinese cities.
usage
As a verb, 鼓 often means 'to rouse/inspire': 鼓起勇气 (pluck up courage), 鼓舞 (inspire/uplift). 打鼓 means to beat a drum, but 心里打鼓 means 'to feel nervous/uncertain.'
