Systole
(noun)
The contraction of the heart muscle, especially of the left ventricle, that propels blood into the aorta and other arteries.
Origin:
This word is derived from the greek word "systolē" which means "contraction". it was first used in the 17th century.
Examples:
- The systole occurs when the ventricles of the heart contract to pump blood out to the body.
- The systole and diastole are two phases of the cardiac cycle.
- The systolic blood pressure is the highest pressure when the heart is contracting and pumping blood.
- The systolic murmur is a heart sound heard during systole.
- The systolic function of the heart is the ability of the left ventricle to contract and pump blood out to the body.