pulse1
n.
- the rhythmical throbbing of the arteries as blood is propelled through them.
▸each successive throb of the arteries or heart.
- a single vibration or short burst of sound, electric current, light, or other wave.
- a musical beat or other regular rhythm.
- the centre of activity in an area or field:
those close to the financial and economic pulse.
- Biochemistry a measured amount of an isotopic label given to a culture of cells.
v.
- pulsate.
- modulate (a wave or beam) so that it becomes a series of pulses.
- apply a pulsed signal to (a device).
Derivative
Etymology
ME: from L. pulsus ‘beating’, from pellere ‘to drive, beat’.
pulse2
n.
the edible seeds of various leguminous plants, e.g. lentils.
▸a plant producing such seeds.
Etymology
ME: from OFr. pols, from L. puls ‘porridge of meal or pulse’; rel. to pollen.