systole Hear it!

systole Definition

sys·tole (sis′tə lē′)

noun

the usual rhythmic contraction of the heart, esp. of the ventricles, following each dilatation (diastole), during which the blood is driven onward from the chambers

Etymology: ModL < Gr systolē < systellein, to draw together: see systaltic

systole Related Forms

sys·tol′ic (sis täl′ik) adjective

systole Usage Examples

Adjective modifier

  • ventricular: The first sound is the simultaneous closure of the A/V valves, which is at the start of the ventricular systole.
  • atrial: The " lub " sound is caused by the closure of the AV valves at the beginning of atrial systole.