up-tempo

American  

[uhp-tem-poh] / ˈʌpˌtɛm poʊ /

noun

plural

up-tempos, up-tempi

1. a bouncy, fast tempo in music.

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adjective

1. characterized by a fast and bouncy tempo.

Etymology

Origin of up-tempo

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

The question heading into the Division II final was whether King/Drew could slow Sylmar’s up-tempo offense — which had scored over 90 points 11 times and over 100 four times this season.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 28, 2026

He rediscovered his rhythm when compiling an up-tempo 103 break and crafted a wonderful 111 - his eighth century of the tournament - to round off the afternoon's play.

From BBC • Jan. 18, 2026

Tape of Chambliss had left their jaws hanging, and they could only imagine what he might accomplish in Kiffin’s up-tempo attack.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 6, 2026

They seem to move the ball pretty well in up-tempo situations, but coach Sean Payton doesn’t like to lean into that with any regularity.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 23, 2025

He clicks some stuff on one of the computers and a bass heavy up-tempo beat blasts through the speakers.

From "On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas