heart
The word functions as a bridge between biological reality and metaphorical emotion. While it describes a physical organ, its primary power in English is symbolic, representing the epicenter of human experience. When used to describe location, it evokes a sense of depth, protection, and vitality. The "heart" of a city or forest isn't just the geometric center, but the most characteristic or active part. Emotionally, it carries an overwhelmingly positive connotation of sincerity, courage, and empathy. Unlike "mind," which suggests logic and calculation, "heart" suggests raw, honest feeling and moral intuition.
Countable when referring to the physical organ in a chest or the symbol of love. Uncountable when describing someone's emotional nature, such as having 'a kind heart' (as a quality) or 'heart' meaning courage ('he has a lot of heart').
💬Casual Conversation
KAREN I SAW THE POST. YOUR HEART IS SO BIG FOR HELPING THOSE KIDS.
Thanks, Eleanor. Just trying to keep this neighborhood from falling apart.
Meanings
Examples
The surgeon performed a complex operation on the patient's heart.
The hotel is located in the heart of the city.
It takes a lot of heart to stand up for your beliefs.
Collocations & Compounds
heart attack
a sudden medical emergency where blood flow to the heart is blocked
He suffered a heart attack after years of stress.
heart rate
the speed at which the heart beats per minute
The athlete's heart rate dropped quickly after the race.
heart failure
a chronic condition where the heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should
The patient was treated for congestive heart failure.
heart of gold
a very kind and generous nature
Despite his gruff exterior, he has a heart of gold.
heartland of
the central region of a country or area
This region is the agricultural heartland of the nation.