1. downbeat - Noun
2. downbeat - Adjective
the first beat of a musical measure (as the conductor's arm moves downward)
Source: WordNetI used to feel defensive when people would say, 'Yes, but your books have happy endings', as if that made them worthless, or unrealistic. Some people do get happy endings, even if it's only for a while. I would rather never be published again than write a downbeat ending. Marian Keyes
I want no part of making any contribution whatsoever to the despair which eventually follows downbeat thinking. Loretta Young
Afterward, Republican senators who have largely sat out the talks sounded downbeat about striking a deal before they are scheduled to begin a monthlong recess on Friday. Source: Internet
Asked whether the Prime Minister and his advisers would have seen this study before their downbeat TV briefing yesterday, Professor Elliot said 'yes'. Source: Internet
Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty also sounded a downbeat note this evening, telling the No10 briefing that there is still a 'long, long way to go'. Source: Internet
Common rhythms in bluegrass bass playing involve (with some exceptions) plucking on beats 1 and 3 in 4/4 time; beats 1 and 2 in 2/4 time, and on the downbeat in 3/4 time (waltz time). Source: Internet