Making use of newly derived equations for dc‐ac coupled elastic motion, the effect of a static axial stress and strain upon the velocity of the lowest‐order flexural mode in solid circular cylinders has been demonstrated. It is rigorously shown that the “transverse” wave in a stretch string configuration is the general form of which the lowest‐order Pochammer mode is the special case, i.e., for zero static stress. Applications of the results to stringed instruments, high‐speed turbines, and deep‐sea vehicles are briefly discussed.