Meaning & Definition of word "Beat"

Beat

/biːt/

1. A stroke or sound made by striking something.
- Example: The beat of the music was infectious, making everyone want to dance.
2. A repeated rhythmic unit in music or poetry.
- Example: The rap song has a catchy beat that gets stuck in your head.
3. A defeat or loss in competition.
- Example: That loss was a tough beat for the team to swallow.
4. An area or subject that one is responsible for covering, as in journalism.
- Example: She covers the city council beat for the local newspaper.

1. To strike a person or an animal, especially repeatedly.
- Example: The boxer managed to beat his opponent in the final round.
2. To win against someone in a competition.
- Example: Our team beat the rivals in a thrilling match.
3. To move swiftly and rhythmically.
- Example: The drummer's hands moved in a blur as he beat the drums energetically.
4. To defeat or overcome.
- Example: She worked hard to beat her personal record in the marathon.
5. To stir or mix a substance vigorously using a utensil.
- Example: I need you to beat the eggs until they are fluffy.

Middle English 'beten', from Old English 'beatan', meaning 'to strike'.

beat around the bush:

to avoid talking about what is important

beat the clock:

to finish something before a deadline

beat your own drum:

to boast or brag about one's own achievements

beat a dead horse:

to continue to argue or discuss a point that has already been decided

beat one's wings:

to flap one's wings, often used metaphorically to indicate excitement or agitation

beater:

a tool or person that beats things, especially in cooking

beating:

the action of striking repeatedly

beatitude:

a state of utmost happiness or bliss

Meaning: exhausted or tired

Example Sentence: After the long hike, I was completely beat.

Meaning: defeated or outperformed

Example Sentence: I thought I had a good chance, but I totally got beat.