blood pressure

noun

Physiology.

1. the pressure of the blood against the inner walls of the blood vessels, varying in different parts of the body during different phases of contraction of the heart and under different conditions of health, exertion, etc. BP

blood pressure

noun

1. the pressure exerted by the blood on the inner walls of the arteries, being relative to the elasticity and diameter of the vessels and the force of the heartbeat

blood pressure

1. The pressure of the blood in the vessels, especially the arteries, as it circulates through the body. Blood pressure varies with the strength of the heartbeat, the volume of blood being pumped, and the elasticity of the blood vessels. Arterial blood pressure is usually measured by means of a sphygmomanometer and reported in millimeters of mercury as a fraction, with the numerator equal to the blood pressure during systole and the denominator equal to the blood pressure during diastole.

2. See more at hypertension hypotension

blood pressure

1. The pressure of the blood against the walls of the blood vessels, especially the arteries. It is expressed in two figures, said to be one “over” the other: the systolic pressure, which is the pressure when the left ventricle of the heart contracts to push the blood through the body; and the diastolic pressure, which is the pressure when the ventricle relaxes and fills with blood. Blood pressure is affected by the strength of the heartbeat, the volume of blood in the body, the elasticity of the blood vessels, and the age and general health of the person. (See circulatory system.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of blood pressure¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

She had her blood pressure and vital signs taken during the second set and was given something to eat and drink by the physio.

Read more on BBC

It also warned that taking psychedelics can trigger "increases in heart rate, blood pressure and anxiety levels", highlighting the need of administering these substances in a "controlled environment".

Read more on BBC

The first is marketed only in Japan, while the second is widely used for high blood pressure.

Read more on Science Daily

Evelyn’s blood pressure crept up when she was in her 70s—nothing dramatic, just numbers that doctors called “normal for her age.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Being outdoors can trigger measurable changes inside your body from lowering stress hormones, easing blood pressure and even improving your gut health.

Read more on BBC