Beat
The basic unit of time in music — the regular pulse a listener feels
Category
rhythm
Pronunciation
BEET
Origin
English
Length
89 words · 1 min read
About Beat
The beat is the steady pulse underlying all music. It is what you tap your foot to.
More rhythm terms
Rubato (rhythm)
View all rhythmterms →A flexible approach to tempo in which some beats are slightly lengthened and others shortened for expressive effect.
PolyrhythmThe simultaneous use of two or more conflicting rhythmic patterns
TripletA group of three notes played in the time normally occupied by two notes of the same value.
SyncopationDeliberate displacement of the expected rhythmic accent
OffbeatAny beat or subdivision that falls between the main beats of a bar, often used for rhythmic interest and lift.
Compare with similar terms
v1 · 09/04/2026Browse all terms →