Definition

Noun: * An abnormal sound of the heart; sometimes a sign of abnormal function of the heart valves: A "heart murmur" is a sound, heard through a stethoscope, that is produced by the flow of blood through the heart. While some murmurs are harmless ("innocent"), others can indicate a problem with the heart's structure or function, such as a leaky or narrowed valve.

Usage

• The term "heart murmur" is a medical noun used to describe a clinical finding. It is typically used by healthcare professionals when discussing examination results or diagnoses.
• Example:
• Example:

Advanced Usage

• "Innocent heart murmur" or "Functional heart murmur": Refers to a murmur that is not caused by heart disease and is common in healthy children and adults. It is considered harmless.
  • Example: The doctor assured the parents that it was just an innocent heart murmur.
• "Pathologic heart murmur" or "Organic heart murmur": Refers to a murmur caused by an underlying structural problem or disease of the heart.
  • Example: The echocardiogram confirmed that the heart murmur was pathologic, indicating a mitral valve issue.

Variants and Related Words

• Murmur (noun/verb): As a standalone noun, "murmur" can refer to a low, continuous, indistinct sound (e.g., ). In a medical context, it is shorthand for "heart murmur." As a verb, it means to speak softly or indistinctly.
• Cardiac murmur: A more formal, clinical synonym for "heart murmur."

Synonyms

• Cardiac murmur (n): The direct technical synonym.
• Systolic murmur / Diastolic murmur (n): These specify when the murmur occurs during the heartbeat cycle (systole or diastole), providing more precise diagnostic information.

Related Phrases

• To have a murmur: A common colloquial phrase meaning to be diagnosed with or to possess a heart murmur.
  • Example: My grandfather has had a murmur for years, but it's well-managed.

Noun

1. an abnormal sound of the heart; sometimes a sign of abnormal function of the heart valves