Definition of DOWNBEAT

downbeat

Meanings

Plural: downbeats

Noun

  • the first beat of a musical measure (as the conductor's arm moves downward)
  • The accented beat at the beginning of a bar (indicated by a conductor with a downward stroke).

Adj

  • Sad or pessimistic.
  • Cautiously optimistic.

Origin / Etymology

From down + beat.

Antonyms

upbeat

Scrabble Score: 14

downbeat is a valid Scrabble (US) TWL word
downbeat is a valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
downbeat is a valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 16

downbeat is a valid Words With Friends word