beat time
To demonstrate the tempo and rhythm of a piece of music via metronomic actions of the body, such as clapping one's hands, tapping one's feet, nodding one's head, etc. I can't help but beat time whenever I hear a song come on the radio. I always wanted to play an instrument, but I'm not good at beating time. Hey, can you beat time while I try to teach them this part of the song?
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
beat time
Mark musical time by beating a drum, clapping, tapping the foot, or a similar means. For example, Even as a baby, Dave always beat time when he heard music. [Late 1600s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
beat ˈtime
show the rhythm of a piece of music by striking something, moving your hands, etc: She beat time with her fingers.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017