A plectrum is a small flat tool used to pluck or strum a stringed instrument. They pluck, smooth, and bend twigs and grass stems to procure a variety of foodstuffs. As he attempts to pluck it, it stabs his finger. They often pluck the feathers off their prey on a post or other perch. It stands on top of its prey to pluck and pull it apart. They pluck fruit from a perch or occasionally while hovering. They also pluck birds larger than pigeons before beginning to feed. They threatened to pluck him off by helicopter. Normally, some players would pluck the string very lightly to create a very quiet sound. Blackmore usually plays the main riff using a finger pluck. In some cases, the violinist will pluck strings with the left hand. They pluck maggots from carcasses and manure. To pluck hair on the head and face by hand. Characters here also can pluck vegetables from the ground to throw at enemies. Ideally the right hand should pluck the string at an antinode.