English · Body & Health
blood pressure
/ˈblʌd ˌpreʃ.ər/
[/ˈblʌd ˌpreʃ.ər/]
force of blood in arteries
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps it around the body.
Example
The doctor warned that his high blood pressure could lead to heart problems if untreated.
The doctor warned that his high blood pressure could lead to heart problems if untreated.
Etymology
A compound of 'blood' (Old English 'blod') and 'pressure' (from Latin 'pressura', a pressing).
How & Where It’s Used
A standard medical measurement, often discussed in relation to diet, stress, and heart health.