common time

noun

, Music.

1. a meter or tempo of four beats per measure, with each of four quarter notes receiving a single beat. : C

common time

noun

1. music a time signature indicating four crotchet beats to the bar; four-four time C

Word History and Origins

Origin of common time¹

First recorded in 1665–75

Example Sentences

"Early morning is one of the most common times people experience migraine attacks," Porreca said.

From Science Daily

It’s also a very common time to lose things.

From NewsForKids.net

As a bonus, magnetic reversals could provide a common time marker for rocks from different locations.

From Science Magazine

Four four time is used so much that it is often called common time, written as a bold "C."

From Literature

"This period before the midterms is a common time for officials to depart," said a White House official, who did not wish to be named.

From Reuters