1.
If you beat out sounds on a drum or similar instrument, you make the sounds by hitting the instrument.
Drums and cymbals beat out a solemn rhythm.
= tap out
PHRASAL VERB : V P n (not pron)
2.
If you beat out a fire, you cause it to go out by hitting it, usually with an object such as a blanket.
His brother beat out the flames with a blanket...
She managed to beat the fire out.
PHRASAL VERB : V P n (not pron) , V n P
3.
If you beat out someone in a competition, you defeat them. ( mainly AM )
Indianapolis beat out nearly 100 other cities as the site for a huge United Airlines maintenance center...
If we are certain a rival will beat us out, we are wide open to jealousy.
PHRASAL VERB : V P n (not pron) , V n P