to beat the band

English

Etymology

Jonathon Green suggests that it means to drown out the band, that is, talk or sing louder than the band. See also beat the band.

Pronunciation

• Audio (AU)

  (file)

Adverb

to beat the band

1. (idiomatic) In such a way as to surpass all competition; hence, contextually, very vigorously, at a frantic pace, to a high degree.
   • 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)
• beyond compare (adverb)
• like the new time (adverb)