Dictionary

1downbeat

noun down·beat \ˈdan-ˌbēt\

: the downward movement that a conductor makes to show which note is played with the greatest stress or force

: the first beat of a measure of music

Full Definition of DOWNBEAT

1
:  the downward stroke of a conductor indicating the principally accented note of a measure of music; also :  the first beat of a measure
2
:  a decline in activity or prosperity
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First Known Use of DOWNBEAT

1869

2downbeat

adjective

: sad or depressing : not happy or hopeful

DOWNBEAT Defined for Kids

downbeat

noun down·beat \ˈdan-ˌbēt\

Definition of DOWNBEAT for Kids

:  the first beat of a measure of music

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