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up-tempo

American

[uhp-tem-poh] / ˈʌpˌtɛm poʊ /

noun

plural

up-tempos, up-tempi

a bouncy, fast tempo in music.

adjective

characterized by a fast and bouncy tempo.

Etymology

Origin of up-tempo

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Tape of Chambliss had left their jaws hanging, and they could only imagine what he might accomplish in Kiffin’s up-tempo attack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 6, 2026

No. 2 Alabama — The Crimson Tide’s up-tempo style can catch a lot of opponents flat-footed.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2025

Pacifica came out on its first possession and used a no-huddle, up-tempo scheme to drive 72 yards for a 7-0 lead on Royster’s seven-yard touchdown run.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2024

The gloomy sci-fi aesthetic was finally punctured by an up-tempo performance from French band Phoenix, who tore into two hits.

From BBC • Aug. 11, 2024

He clicks some stuff on one of the computers and a bass heavy up-tempo beat blasts through the speakers.

From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023