Beats

Part of speech: verb

Pronunciation: /biːts/

Definitions

1. Regular rhythmic pulses forming the basic unit of time in music or sound ; to overcome or win against someone in a competition or conflict ; to move or strike something several times in succession
2. The fundamental recurring pulses heard in a musical piece or sound pattern ; to succeed in surpassing an opponent or challenge ; to repeatedly hit or move in a steady manner
3. Repeated rhythmic sound units that provide timing in music ; to outdo or conquer an adversary ; to apply force or motion repeatedly, often with hitting or moving actions

Etymology: Its plural form of "beat", which comes from Old English "bēatan", meaning to strike, pound or thrash. The root sense of striking survives in an unexpected cousin: Latin "fustis", a club or cudgel, is a cognate.

Synonyms: strikes, thumps, hits, pulses, rhythms

Antonyms: rests, stops, pauses, lulls, quiets