Systole
/ˈsɪs.təˌliː/noun
The phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood.
Did you know?In ancient times, the concept of 'systole' was linked to the idea of cosmic harmony, reflecting the balance of life and death within the body and universe.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
συστολή (systolē)
“A drawing together, contraction.”
Late Latin
Latin
systole
“Contraction, especially of the heart.”
16th Century
Middle French
systole
“Adoption of the term for use in medical contexts.”
Modern English
English
systole
“The phase of the heart's contraction in contemporary medical terminology.”