heartstring en · NOUN
Etymology
From heart + string.
Meanings
- (historical, rare) singular of heartstrings ▸ A tendon or other structure resembling a cord once thought to be attached to, or to brace, the heart.
- (figuratively, rare) singular of heartstrings ▸ A source of one's deepest emotions or inner feelings, especially compassion or love.
- (archaic, figuratively, rare) singular of heartstrings ▸ The essential or vital part of something; the core, the essence, the heart.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| heartstrings | Number=Plur | lexicographic |
Synonyms
nub · moral of the story · core · marrow · kernel · heart · heartstring · spirit · crux · tenor · quintessence · sum · heartstrings · substance · soul · nitty-gritty · gravamen · bowels · drift · gist · punctum saliens · gist · guts · heart and soul · stuff · brass tacks · inwardness · pith · crux · nuts and bolts · essence · meat