What does "matched" mean?

1. (looked the same or went together) looked good together or were exactly the same. 2. (was equal to) was as good as or the same as something else. 3. (drumming grip) a way of holding drumsticks where both hands hold the sticks the same way.

How do you use "matched"?

Often used as a shortened form of 'matched grip' in technical discussions among drummers.

matched

v. · n.

US //ˈmætʃt// UK //mˈætʃt// matched

1 looked the same or went together (v.)
B1 Intermediate

looked good together or were exactly the same.

corresponded in appearance, quality, or nature; functioned as a suitable pair.

Example

Her shoes matched her dress perfectly for the wedding.

Example

The witness testified that the suspect's description matched the individual seen fleeing the gallery shortly after the alarm sounded.
- clashed
- differed
2 was equal to (v.)
B1 Intermediate

was as good as or the same as something else.

equalled someone or something in quality, strength, or ability.

Example

No one in the race matched his incredible speed.

Example

The company's annual revenue matched the ambitious projections set by the board of directors during the previous fiscal year.
- equalled
- rivalled
- paralleled
- surpassed
- failed
3 drumming grip (n.)
C2 Proficiency Technical Music

a way of holding drumsticks where both hands hold the sticks the same way.

a technique in percussion where both hands hold the drumsticks in an identical fashion, typically with the palms facing down.

Example

The teacher suggested switching to matched to help with his power.

Example

While jazz purists often prefer the traditional grip, many modern rock percussionists favour matched for its ergonomic symmetry and consistent stroke power.

Usage

Often used as a shortened form of 'matched grip' in technical discussions among drummers.
- matched grip
- traditional grip

Last updated June 19, 2026