to beat the band

English

Etymology

Unclear. See beat the band.

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU):

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Adverb

to beat the band

1. (idiomatic) Very vigorously; at a frantic pace; to a high degree; in such a way as to surpass all competition.
   • 1917, Jack London, chapter 7, in Michael, Brother of Jerry:

     Fifty dollars gold 'd buy beer to beat the band—enough to drown me if I fell in head first.

   • 1921, P. G. Wodehouse, chapter 7, in The Little Warrior:

     Last time I saw you, you were a kiddy in short frocks, running around and shouting to beat the band.

   • 1922, Peter B. Kyne, chapter 54, in Cappy Ricks Retires:

     You rile me to beat the band sometimes, Skinner.

Synonyms

• a lot (adverb)
• like the new time (adverb)