WordGarden.iopulse
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈʌls/
US
- /ˈpəls/
Meanings
Noun
the regular throbbing of blood in the arteries caused by the heartbeat
a regular beat or driving rhythm, especially in music
a brief burst of light, electricity, sound, or other wave energy
More meaningsFewer meanings
an edible dried seed of a legume crop such as a bean, pea, or lentil
Verb
to beat, throb, or flash in regular bursts
Beyond the definition
We often think of a pulse as the steady beat you feel when checking a heartbeat. It is one of the clearest signs of life. Beyond the doctor's office, "pulse" can also describe a strong, living rhythm in other things. A city might have a busy pulse of activity, and a piece of music can have a driving pulse that carries it forward.
In a different context, "pulse" also refers to the dried edible seeds of legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, dried peas, and beans. Whether you are feeling the energy of a crowd or cooking a hearty stew, the word is often linked to life, movement, and basic nourishment.
The word "pulse" most commonly refers to the rhythmic expansion and contraction of an artery caused by the heart pumping blood. In medicine, it is a primary vital sign used to measure health and exertion. For example, "Her pulse was racing after she finished the marathon."
However, the term extends far beyond biology. Metaphorically, "pulse" describes any regular, repeating beat or a general sense of energy. A bustling metropolis is often said to have a "vibrant pulse," meaning it is full of life and constant motion. In music, the pulse is the underlying beat that allows listeners to feel the rhythm. You might also feel a figurative "pulse" of emotion, such as a sudden pulse of adrenaline or fear during a tense moment.
Botanically, "pulse" has a distinct and ancient meaning. It refers to the harvested dry seeds of legumes, especially dried peas, beans, lentils, and chickpeas. These pulses have been a cornerstone of human nutrition for millennia.
Historically, the study of the pulse was central to early medicine; ancient physicians believed the strength and rhythm of the arterial beat revealed the balance of a person's "vital spirit." Whether used to describe a medical rhythm, a burst of energy, or a nutritious harvest, "pulse" consistently speaks to the essential flows that keep the world moving.
Examples
- 1
Medical check
The nurse checked his pulse before the doctor came in.
- 2
Physical reaction
After climbing the stairs, I could feel my pulse racing.
- 3
Music rhythm
The song has a steady pulse that makes it easy to dance to.
- 4
Flashing light
A soft red light pulsed above the door.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Loud music
Music pulsed through the club all night.
- 6
Lively place
By evening, the whole market was pulsing with energy.
- Patternpulse with + energy/activity
be full of strong activity or energy
- 7
Election survey
The survey was meant to take the pulse of local voters before the election.
- Phrasetake the pulse of
find out what people think or feel
- 8
Workplace awareness
Good managers keep their finger on the pulse of the team.
- Phrasekeep your finger on the pulse
stay aware of what is happening now
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
- flatline
- arrhythmia
Used with (collocations)
- take someone's pulse
- check a pulse
- pulse rate
- resting pulse
Word family
Explore
- heart rate
- circulation
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- pulsenounverb
Forms
- pulsespluralnounverb
- pulsing-ing formverbnoun
- pulsedpast tenseverbnoun