PULSATILE Meaning and
Definition
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Pulsatile is an adjective that refers to something that exhibits a rhythmic pulsation or beating motion. Derived from the Latin word "pulsus," meaning "to beat or pulsate," it describes the characteristic of regularly expanding and contracting or oscillating in a pulsating pattern.
In medical terminology, the term pulsatile is commonly used to describe certain types of blood flow or the quality of a pulse. Specifically, it refers to a rhythmic throbbing sensation that can be felt when the arteries expand and contract due to the surge of blood propelled through them by the heartbeat. This pulsatile quality of a pulse is an important diagnostic feature for healthcare professionals who can assess a patient's health condition based on the regularity, intensity, and pattern of their pulse.
Pulsatile can also be used more broadly to describe any other rhythmic and alternating expansion and contraction motions or vibrations. For instance, in the field of engineering, pulsatile flow refers to fluid or gas movement that fluctuates cyclically with a beating pattern. Furthermore, pulsatile tinnitus refers to an abnormal perception of a rhythmic sound resembling a heartbeat in the ears.
Overall, the term pulsatile embodies the concept of a regular and rhythmic occurrence of expansion and contraction, either in the realms of biological processes, technical phenomena, or perceptual experiences.
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That may be beaten; played by beating, as a drum; beating, as a pulse.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PULSATILE
Etymology of PULSATILE
The word "pulsatile" comes from the Latin word "pulsatus", which is the past participle of the verb "pulsare", meaning "to beat or to throb". The Latin term "pulsus" refers specifically to a pulse or pulsation. In English, "pulsatile" is used to describe something that beats, throbs, or pulsates rhythmically.
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