# to beat the band

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/to-beat-the-band
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

In such a way as to surpass all competition; hence, contextually, very vigorously, at a frantic pace, to a high degree.

## Examples

- 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.

## Origin

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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.