beat time; auctioneer's hammer; make the final decision
Meanings
4 senses · 13 examplesverb
to beat time; to keep the rhythm
In music or singing, to mark the rhythm.
You sing, and I'll keep the rhythm for you.
Listening to the music, he gently beat time on the table with his hand.
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The conductor uses his baton to keep time for the choir.
verb
(of an auctioneer) to strike the gavel to signify a sale; to knock down
formalA traditional auction practice where striking a wooden block finalizes the sale.
After the auctioneer's hammer fell, the painting went to bidder number three.
This antique was finally knocked down at a high price.
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At the auction, as soon as the host called out a price, someone raised their paddle, and he immediately struck the gavel.
verb
(figurative) to make the final decision; to give the go-ahead
informalUsed when a person in authority makes a conclusive decision.
This project needs the general manager's approval to be finalized.
Regarding the new policy, the mayor still has to make the final call.
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The boss has given the green light, so we'll proceed according to plan.
After the decision was made, everyone started to act separately.
noun
clappers; a percussion instrument used for keeping time
A traditional Chinese percussion instrument consisting of hardwood slabs.
Storytellers often use a pair of clappers to control the rhythm.
In the accompaniment of this opera excerpt, the sound of the clappers is very prominent.
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The percussionist in the orchestra is responsible for playing the clappers.