beating

word · lemma: beat

/ˈbitɪŋ/
BEE-ding
/bˈiːtɪŋ/
BEE-ting

Definition

A beating is a violent attack in which someone is hit many times. It can also mean the repeated movement of something that beats, especially a heart.

Usage & Nuances

Most often, 'beating' as a noun means a physical assault and has a strong, serious tone. In some contexts it means 'defeat' ('take a beating') or rhythmic movement ('the beating of drums', 'a beating heart'); meaning depends heavily on context.

Example Sentences

The man suffered a severe beating in the street.

basic

I could hear the beating of my heart.

basic

The drums kept beating all night.

basic

After that beating, he was afraid to go back there.

natural

My team took a real beating this season.

natural

I could feel my heart beating faster as I waited for the results.

natural