upbeat
UK: ˈʌpbiːt | US: ˈʌpbiːt
adj. optimistic or cheerful
n. (Music) an unaccented beat preceding a downbeat
The word "upbeat" originated in the mid-19th century as a musical term, referring to the upward stroke of a conductor's baton signaling an unaccented beat before the downbeat. By the 1940s, it evolved metaphorically to describe a cheerful or optimistic attitude, likely influenced by the association of upward motion with positivity and energy. The morpheme "up" retains its directional meaning, while "beat" preserves its rhythmic connotation, together forming a vivid image of rising momentum.
Despite the challenges, she maintained an upbeat attitude.
The song starts with a quick upbeat.
His upbeat personality made him popular at work.
The team felt upbeat after their victory.
The conductor emphasized the upbeat to keep the orchestra in sync.