beat time



beat time

To demonstrate the tempo and rhythm of a piece of music via metronomic actions of the body, such as clapping one's hands, tapping one's feet, nodding one's head, etc. I can't help but beat time whenever I hear a song come on the radio. I always wanted to play an instrument, but I'm not good at beating time.
See also: beat, time

beat time

Mark musical time by beating a drum, clapping, tapping the foot, or a similar means. For example, Even as a baby, Dave always beat time when he heard music. [Late 1600s]
See also: beat, time

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Ane (2)-Frisian
Zola (2)-Southern African, Zulu
Muiris-Irish
Donnchad-Scottish, Irish
RafRAHFDutch
AndriesAHN-dreesDutch