ENGLISH
REFERENCE

upbeat

adj. · n.
US //ˈəpˌbit// UK //ʌpbˈiːt// up·beat
  1. 1 positive and happy (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    having a positive, cheerful, and optimistic attitude.

    characterised by optimism, cheerfulness, or a positive outlook.

    Example

    Despite the bad news, she tried to stay upbeat and focus on the future.

    Example

    The CEO delivered an upbeat presentation regarding the company's quarterly earnings, despite the challenging economic climate facing the industry.
  2. 2 fast and lively music (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Music

    having a fast tempo or a lively, energetic rhythm.

    having a fast pace or energetic tempo, typically in a musical context.

    Example

    The band played an upbeat song that made everyone want to dance.

    Example

    The choreographer selected an upbeat track to ensure the opening sequence of the musical captured the audience's attention immediately.
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  1. 3 unaccented beat (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Music

    the beat in music that comes just before the main, strong beat.

    an unaccented beat or beats occurring before the first beat of a measure.

    Example

    The conductor signaled the start of the piece on the upbeat.

    Example

    The melody begins on an upbeat, requiring the woodwind section to enter with precise timing before the first full measure.

    Usage

    In technical music theory, this is a countable noun.
    • downbeat
Origin

From up- + beat.

Word family

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