systole

noun sys·to·le \ˈsis-tə-(ˌ)lē\

Definition of SYSTOLE

: a rhythmically recurrent contraction; especially : the contraction of the heart by which the blood is forced onward and the circulation kept up

— sys·tol·ic \sis-ˈtä-lik\ adjective

See systole defined for kids

Greek systolē, from systellein to contract, from syn- + stellein to send

First Known Use: 1578

Medical Dictionary

noun sys·to·le \ˈsis-tə-(ˌ)lē\

: the contraction of the heart by which the blood is forced onward and the circulation kept up—compare diastole 1

—sys·tol·ic \sis-ˈtäl-ik\ adjective

Next Word in the Dictionary: systylePrevious Word in the Dictionary: systems analysisAll Words Near: systole

What made you want to look up systole? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears