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beat out

  1. Knock into shape by beating, as in She managed to beat out all the dents in the fender . [c. 1600]

  2. Surpass or defeat someone; be chosen over someone. For example, He got to the head of the line, beating out all the others . [ Colloquial ; second half of 1700s] Also see beat the pants off .

  3. beat out of . Cheat someone of something, as in He was always trying to beat the conductor out of the full train fare . [ Slang ; second half of 1800s]



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Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Jones has thrived with the Colts since beating out Anthony Richardson for the starting role.

Los Angeles and El Segundo beat out eight other international cities prior to selection, and Los Angles Mayor Karen Bass said the two cities were uniquely positioned to host the global event.

As Byrne’s pioneering punk act turns 50, he’s forced to take a beat out of every interview to address a possible reunion.

From Salon

“I woke up, my heart was beating out of my chest,” she said.

The dhol drum of the Bharat Army beat out the rhythm of We Will Rock You, and rocked England were.

From BBC

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beat one's head against the wallbeat poets