[ˈhɑrbɪt]

Definitions

1. noun

the rhythmic beating of the heart

“The doctor listened to the patient’s heartbeat with a stethoscope.”

2. verb

to produce a rhythmic beating sound, typically of the heart

“Her heart was beating rapidly as she ran up the stairs.”

3. noun

the central or most important part of something

“The heartbeat of the city was its vibrant music scene.”

4. noun

the core or essential part of a computer or electronic device

“The heartbeat of the system was the central processing unit.”