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Downbeat: meaning, definitions and examples

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downbeat

 

[ ˈdaʊnˌbiːt ]

Noun / Adjective
Context #1 | Noun

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 | Adjective

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

Etymology

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.

See also: backbeat, beat, beatable, beaten, beater, beating, offbeat, unbeatability, unbeatable, upbeat.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,720 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.