Synonyms for

Heartbeat

Verb / ˈhɑ:ˌrtbi:t / Another word for heartbeat — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The pulsation of the heart, typically felt through the walls of the chest.

Synonyms & similar words

blinkofaneye newyorkminute flash splitsecond instant wink jiffy pulsation twinkling beat trice pulse pulse rhythm throb palpitation pulsation beat cadence meter tempo vibration thumping pounding throbbing surging flutter quiver quivering shudder shuddering quaking

Synonyms by register

Formal

cardiac rhythm pulsation pulse rate

Informal

thump throb beat

Literary

pulse of life vital rhythm

Antonyms

stillness cessation quietude inactivity pause lull

Common collocations

  • fast heartbeat
  • slow heartbeat
  • irregular heartbeat
  • hear a heartbeat
  • missed heartbeat
  • heartbeat of the city
  • heartbeat of the nation

Word family

noun heartbeat
verb beat
adjective heart-beating

Usage note

While 'heartbeat' is generally neutral, it can sometimes be used metaphorically to refer to the essential rhythm or core of something, like 'the heartbeat of the community'.

Example sentences

  1. The doctor listened to my heartbeat with a stethoscope.
  2. My heartbeat races when I'm nervous.
  3. A strong heartbeat is a sign of good health.
  4. I could feel the baby's heartbeat through my belly.
  5. The sound of a heartbeat can be soothing.

Quotes

  • 'The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.' -Helen Keller
  • 'The greatest happiness you can have is knowing that you do not necessarily require happiness.' -William Saroyan
  • 'A smile is the universal welcome.' -Max Eastman

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