to beat the band
In such a way as to surpass all competition; hence, contextually, very vigorously, at a frantic pace, to a high degree.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The music played to beat the band all night long.”
“The kitchen was busy to beat the band as the staff prepared for the dinner rush.”
“Following the unexpected announcement, the stock market fluctuated to beat the band, leaving investors in a state of complete uncertainty.”
Jonathon Green suggests that it means to drown out the band, that is, talk or sing louder than the band. See also beat the band.
- 01
band together
to unite, to come together
- 02
beat a dead horse
To persist or continue far beyond any purpose, interest or reason.
- 03
beat a retreat
To leave hastily in the face of opposition.
- 04
beat around the bush
To treat a topic, but omit its main points, often intentionally.
- 05
beat as one
To share the same feelings.
- 06
beat Banaghan
To tell wonderful stories, or something which is amazing and remarkable.
- 07
beat feet
To run.
- 08
beat it
To leave; to go away.
Last updated August 10, 2026