pulsate

UK: pʌlˈseɪt | US: ˈpʌlseɪt

Definition
  1. vi. to expand and contract rhythmically; beat or throb

  2. vi. to vibrate or quiver

  3. vi. (figuratively) to exhibit vitality or dynamic energy

Structure
puls <beat>ate <verb suffix>
Etymology

pulsate = puls<beat> + ate<verb suffix>

  • puls (from Latin pulsus, meaning "beat, push, or strike")
  • ate (a verb-forming suffix indicating action or process, from Latin -atus)

Etymology Origin:
Derived from Latin pulsare ("to beat, strike repeatedly"), the frequentative form of pellere ("to drive or push"). The root puls reflects rhythmic motion, later generalized to vibrations or throbbing. The suffix -ate standardizes it as a verb in English, preserving its dynamic essence.

Examples
  1. The frog’s throat began to pulsate as it croaked.

  2. The engine made the floor pulsate with a steady hum.

  3. Her veins pulsated visibly under the thin skin.

  4. The city streets pulsate with life at night.

  5. Light from the disco ball pulsated in time with the music.