Definition & Meaning of "[beat] the clock"

What is the origin of the idiom "beat the clock" and when to use it?

The idiom "beat the clock" originated in the early 20th century and has its roots in the world of entertainment, particularly in radio and television game shows. The term was popularized by the radio program "Beat the Clock," which debuted in 1949 and later transitioned to television. The show involved contestants competing against time to complete various challenges or tasks before a buzzer sounded. It is often used in project management, business, and work-related settings to emphasize the urgency and importance of meeting deadlines.