pulse1
noun 1 the rhythmical throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled through them. 2 each successive throb of the arteries. 3 a single vibration or short burst of sound, electric current, light, etc. 4 a musical beat or other regular rhythm. 5 the centre of activity in an area or field: those close to the economic pulse. verb 1 pulsate. 2 convert (a wave or beam) into a series of pulses. PHRASES feel (or take) the pulse of ascertain the mood or opinion of. ORIGIN Latin pulsus beating, from pellere to drive, beat.
Perform another search of the Compact Oxford English Dictionary
About this dictionary
The Compact Oxford English Dictionary of Current English contains 145,000 words, phrases, and definitions.
Find out more about Oxford's range of English dictionaries
Sign up for the AskOxford Word of the Day
Search the Little Oxford Dictionary of Quotations
Search the Concise Dictionary of First Names
|