upbeat
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.


1up·beat

noun \ˈəp-ˌbēt\

Definition of UPBEAT

1
: an unaccented beat or portion of a beat in a musical measure; specifically : the last beat of the measure
2
: an increase in activity or prosperity <business that is on the upbeat>

First Known Use of UPBEAT

1869

Other Music Terms

cacophony, chorister, concerto, counterpoint, madrigal, obbligato, presto, presto, refrain, riff, segue

2upbeat

adjective

Definition of UPBEAT

: cheerful, optimistic <I'm feeling upbeat today>

Examples of UPBEAT

  1. I like a story with an upbeat ending.
  2. I tried to stay upbeat about losing the election.

First Known Use of UPBEAT

1947

Browse

Next Word in the Dictionary: upbend
Previous Word in the Dictionary: upbear
All Words Near: upbeat

Seen & Heard

What made you want to look up upbeat? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Name That Thing

Take Our 10-Question Quiz

Get Our Free Apps
Voice Search, Favorites,
Word of the Day, and More
Join Us on FB & Twitter
Get the Word of the Day and More