Downbeat: meaning, definitions and examples

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downbeat

[ ˈdaʊnˌbiːt ]

^{Context #1}

music

A downbeat is the first beat of a measure in music. It is the strongest beat and often sets the rhythm for the rest of the piece.

Synonyms

first beat, strong beat

Examples of usage

The drummer emphasized the downbeat to keep the band in sync.
The conductor signaled the downbeat with a clear motion of the baton.

^{Context #2}

mood

Downbeat can also describe a melancholy or pessimistic mood or attitude.

Synonyms

melancholy, pessimistic

Examples of usage

After receiving the bad news, she was feeling very downbeat.
The movie had a downbeat ending that left the audience feeling somber.

Translations

Translations of the word "downbeat" in other languages:

🇵🇹 batida fraca

🇮🇳 धीमा

🇩🇪 schwacher Schlag

🇮🇩 ketukan lemah

🇺🇦 слабкий удар

🇵🇱 słabe uderzenie

🇯🇵 弱いビート

🇫🇷 temps faible

🇪🇸 golpe débil

🇹🇷 zayıf vuruş

🇰🇷 약한 박자

🇸🇦 ضربة ضعيفة

🇨🇿 slabý úder

🇸🇰 slabý úder

🇨🇳 弱拍

🇸🇮 šibek udarec

🇮🇸 veikur sláttur

🇰🇿 әлсіз соққы

🇬🇪 სუსტი დარტყმა

🇦🇿 zəif vuruş

🇲🇽 golpe débil

Word origin

The term 'downbeat' originated in the world of music, specifically in reference to the first beat of a measure. Over time, it has also been used to describe a mood or attitude that is melancholy or pessimistic. The word combines 'down', indicating a lower position or feeling, with 'beat', referring to the rhythm or pulse of music. Its usage has expanded beyond music to capture a broader emotional state, reflecting a sense of gloom or despondency.