Beat

Definition

Beat is both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a rhythmic sound, a repeated strike, or a specific assigned area or routine. As a verb, it means to strike something repeatedly, to surpass or defeat, or to mix or stir vigorously.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /biːt/
• Respelling: beet

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /biːt/
• Respelling: beet

The pronunciation of "beat" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "beat" originates from the Old English word "beatan," meaning "to strike or hit." It has Germanic roots and has retained similar meanings in modern English, referring to rhythmic hitting or the act of defeating.

Derivatives

• Beaten (adjective/verb)
• Beatnik (noun)
• Beater (noun)
• Unbeatable (adjective)
• Beatitude (noun)

Synonyms

• Strike
• Rhythm
• Defeat

Antonyms

• Lose
• Yield
• Surrender

Usage

The term "beat" is used to describe rhythmic patterns in music, as in "The song has a steady beat." It also refers to winning or surpassing, as in "They beat their opponents in the game."

Related Terms

• Rhythm: A regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound.
• Pulse: The regular throbbing or beat, especially as related to the heart or music.
• Defeat: The act of overcoming or winning against an opponent.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A rhythmic sound or pattern: Refers to the regular repetition of sound, often in music.
  • Example: "The drummer kept a steady beat throughout the song."
• A strike or repeated impact: Describes the action or sound of hitting something repeatedly.
  • Example: "He felt the beat of the drum reverberate through the room."
• An assigned area or routine: Often used in law enforcement to describe a regular area of patrol.
  • Example: "The officer was well-known on his neighborhood beat."

Verb

• To strike repeatedly or hit: Refers to the act of making repeated impacts on a surface.
  • Example: "She beat the dust out of the rug."
• To surpass or defeat: Used to indicate victory over an opponent.
  • Example: "They beat their rivals in the championship."
• To mix or stir vigorously: Often used in cooking to describe combining ingredients forcefully.
  • Example: "He beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy."