downbeat

(do̵unbēt′)

noun

  1. a downward trend; downswing
  2. Music
    1. the downward stroke of the conductor's hand or baton indicating the first beat of each measure
    2. such a beat

adjective

Informal grimly realistic; depressing

See downbeat in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. Music
    a. The downward stroke made by a conductor to indicate the first beat of a measure.
    b. The first beat of a measure.
  2. Informal A period of stagnation or inactivity.
adjective
Cheerless; pessimistic.

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