Heartbeat Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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?

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?

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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'heartbeat'

Main points about word origin

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.

The word 'heartbeat' originated in the late 19th century, combining 'heart' and 'beat'. It symbolizes the rhythmic pulsation of the heart, essential for life. The concept of heartbeat has been recognized across cultures as a symbol of vitality and emotion.