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Dictionary

Words, grammatical forms and meanings linked to the ontology.

to beat the band en · ADV

Pronunciation

Etymology

Jonathon Green suggests that it means to drown out the band, that is, talk or sing louder than the band. See also beat the band.

Meanings

  1. (idiomatic) In such a way as to surpass all competition; hence, contextually, very vigorously, at a frantic pace, to a high degree.
    • Last time I saw you, you were a kiddy in short frocks, running around and shouting to beat the band. 1921, P. G. Wodehouse, chapter 7, in The Little Warrior:
    • You rile me to beat the band sometimes, Skinner. 1922, Peter B. Kyne, chapter 54, in Cappy Ricks Retires:
    • Fifty dollars gold 'd buy beer to beat the band—enough to drown me if I fell in head first. 1917, Jack London, chapter 7, in Michael, Brother of Jerry:

Synonyms

like the new time · beyond compare · a lot