PLUCK

(MUSIC), US also pick [verb] [T; I + at] - to pull with your finger then release the strings of (a musical instrument) in order to play notesHe sat on the bed, idly plucking (at) the strings of his guitar.(figurative) I felt a small hand plucking (at) my jacket (= taking hold of it and pulling it repeatedly, esp. in order to attract my attention).(figurative) It kept plucking (at) (= It repeatedly had an effect on) my conscience that I hadn't called my mother for weeks.