Synonyms for

Pulse

Verb / pʌls / Another word for pulse — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

The regular beating or rhythm of the heart, especially when felt at the wrist or in the neck.

Synonyms & similar words

pulserate throb impulse heartrate pulsing beat pulsate pulsation heartbeat beat rhythm throb vibration pulsation heartbeat pounding throbbing cadence patter pitter-patter thumping pumping tick-tock tick-tick tick-tocking tick-ticking tap tapping knocking

Synonyms by register

Formal

beat throb rhythm oscillation

Informal

thump throb beat

Literary

cadence heartbeat vitality

Antonyms

cessation stillness stagnation inactivity lull pause

Common collocations

  • take a pulse
  • check the pulse
  • pulse rate
  • weak pulse
  • strong pulse
  • pulse of the city
  • pulse of life

Word family

noun pulse
verb pulse

Usage note

While 'pulse' can refer to a regular beat or rhythm, it is most commonly used in a medical context to describe the heartbeat or blood flow. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the energy or vitality of something.

Example sentences

  1. The doctor checked my pulse to see how fast my heart was beating.
  2. I can feel my pulse in my neck when I exercise.
  3. The pulse of the music made me want to dance.
  4. The pulse of the city is fast-paced and exciting.
  5. The horse's pulse was racing after running a race.

Quotes

  • I can feel my pulse ticking away the seconds of my life.
  • Life has its rhythm, its own music. We must listen to it, feel it, and dance to it.
  • The pulse of life is the heartbeat of God.

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