* Verb: This is the most common usage, meaning to strike repeatedly, to surpass, or to defeat. Example: "He beat the drum."
* Noun: It can refer to a rhythmic stroke or pulse, especially in music. Example: "The song has a strong beat."
* Adjective: It can mean exhausted or tired, though this usage is less common. Example: "I'm feeling beat after that workout."
To know which part of speech "beat" is, you need to consider its context in a sentence.