pulse
word
Definition
A pulse is the regular beat you can feel in your body as your heart pumps blood. It can also mean a short burst or signal of energy, light, sound, or electricity.
Usage & Nuances
In everyday English, 'pulse' most often means the heartbeat felt at the wrist or neck: 'check your pulse'. In technical contexts, it often refers to a brief signal, as in 'a laser pulse' or 'pulse rate'. Do not confuse it with 'heartbeat': 'pulse' is often what you feel or measure, while 'heartbeat' is the heart’s beating itself.
Example Sentences
The nurse checked my pulse before the test.
basic
His pulse was slow but steady.
basic
I could feel my pulse racing after I ran up the stairs.
natural
The doctor said my pulse was a little high because I was nervous.
natural
The machine sends a pulse of light every second.
basic
You can see the city’s pulse in the streets at night.
natural