Heartbeat: meaning, definitions and examples

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heartbeat

 

[ˈhɑːrtbiːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

The rhythmic contraction and expansion of the arteries with each beat of the heart.

Synonyms

cardiac rhythm, heart rate, pulse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
heartbeat

Used in everyday conversation to describe the regular beating of the heart.

  • I could feel his heartbeat against my chest
  • Her heartbeat was steady and strong
pulse

Refers to the tactile arterial palpation of the heartbeat, usually used in everyday and medical situations.

  • I checked his pulse to make sure he was still alive
  • You can feel your pulse on your wrist
heart rate

Used in both everyday and medical contexts to describe the number of heartbeats per minute.

  • His heart rate increased after running
  • The nurse measured her heart rate
cardiac rhythm

Used in medical or technical contexts to describe the pattern of electrical activity in the heart.

  • The doctor checked the patient's cardiac rhythm
  • Abnormal cardiac rhythm can indicate heart problems

Examples of usage

  • The doctor listened to the patient's heartbeat with a stethoscope.
  • Regular exercise can help improve your heartbeat.
  • She could feel her heartbeat quicken as she approached the stage.
Context #2 | Noun

emotional

A person's essential or most vital part.

Synonyms

core, essence, soul.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
heartbeat

Used to describe something that is very essential and vital in a metaphorical sense, often referring to an organization's main activity or a person's passion.

  • The heartbeat of the company lies in its innovative technology.
  • Teaching is the heartbeat of her life.
core

Refers to the central, most important part of something, whether it be an object, organization, or idea.

  • Trust is at the core of a strong relationship.
  • The core of the argument is based on factual data.
essence

Highlights the intrinsic, fundamental nature or most important quality of something.

  • The essence of the film is its powerful storytelling.
  • At its essence, the project is about community building.
soul

Often used in a poetic or emotional sense to describe the very spirit or individuality of something or someone. Can also imply deep passion or feeling.

  • The soul of the city is its vibrant culture.
  • Music is her soul, and it reflects in every note she plays.

Examples of usage

  • Music is the heartbeat of the city.
  • Nature is the heartbeat of our existence.
  • Love is the heartbeat of the human experience.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'heartbeat' comes from the combination of 'heart,' originating from Old English 'heorte,' and 'beat,' which has roots in the Old English 'beatan,' meaning to strike.
  • In many languages, the word for heart relates to emotions and feelings, showing how closely tied our feelings are to this vital organ.

Science

  • The average human heartbeat is between 60 to 100 beats per minute at rest, but it can vary significantly depending on activity, emotions, and health.
  • A person's heartbeat can be influenced by factors such as stress, exercise, and illness, reflecting both physical and mental health.
  • Some animals have much faster heart rates; for example, a hummingbird can have a heartbeat of over 1,200 beats per minute!

Psychology

  • Research shows that the sound of a heartbeat can influence feelings of comfort and bonding, especially in newborns who are calmed by the sound.
  • Listening to rhythmic sounds, like a heartbeat, can help people relax, which is why some relaxation techniques incorporate heartbeat soundtracks.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of a 'heartbeat' is often used in songs and poetry to symbolize love, life, and connection between people.
  • In movies and television, a rapid heartbeat sound is used to indicate suspense or fear, dramatically heightening tension.

Literature

  • Many authors use the heartbeat metaphorically to represent the essence of life or the passage of time, illustrating how life is fleeting.
  • Heartbeat imagery is common in romantic literature to convey emotions and intimacy between characters.

Translations

Translations of the word "heartbeat" in other languages:

🇵🇹 batimento cardíaco

🇮🇳 दिल की धड़कन

🇩🇪 Herzschlag

🇮🇩 detak jantung

🇺🇦 серцебиття

🇵🇱 tętno

🇯🇵 心拍

🇫🇷 battement de cœur

🇪🇸 latido del corazón

🇹🇷 kalp atışı

🇰🇷 심장 박동

🇸🇦 نبض القلب

🇨🇿 tep srdce

🇸🇰 tep srdca

🇨🇳 心跳

🇸🇮 srčni utrip

🇮🇸 hjartsláttur

🇰🇿 жүрек соғысы

🇬🇪 გულისცემის ხმა

🇦🇿 ürək döyüntüsü

🇲🇽 latido del corazón