upbeat

[ uhp-beet ]

noun

, Music.

1. an unaccented beat, especially immediately preceding a downbeat.
2. the upward stroke with which a conductor indicates such a beat.

adjective

1. optimistic; happy; cheerful:

   television dramas with predictably upbeat endings.

upbeat

/ ˈʌpˌbiːt /

noun

1. music
   1. a usually unaccented beat, esp the last in a bar
   2. the upward gesture of a conductor's baton indicating this Compare downbeat
2. an upward trend (in prosperity, etc)

adjective

1. informal.
   marked by cheerfulness or optimism

Word History and Origins

Origin of upbeat¹

1865–70; 1950–55 upbeat fordef 3; up- + beat

Example Sentences

She delivered the tribute dressed in a dark suit in a poignant moment that was in contrast to the upbeat tone of the rest of the ceremony.

From BBC

“I know I’m a public figure and I’m Keke Palmer and ‘It’s yo’ girl!’” she says, putting on an upbeat voice.

From Los Angeles Times

If Deadwyler had any lingering bitterness about the furor, or concerns about déjà vu with the building excitement about “The Piano Lesson,” it wasn’t in evidence when she bounded into a Beverly Hills hotel room recently, upbeat and lively.

From Los Angeles Times

All the players seemed upbeat about the facilities and general presentation of the finals at the King Saud University.

From BBC

Speaking to supporters Tuesday night at the bar Victory Hall in the South of Market district, Breed struck an upbeat tone and urged patience with early results.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• buoyant
• cheery
• encouraging
• happy
• hopeful
• optimistic
• positive
• rosy
• sanguine