WordUpWordup

Somebody’s heart misses a beat

usgbVolume
Left Definition 1 of 2Right
LampPro Tip 1/3
Emotional ReactionPlay
Used to describe a physical response to strong emotions like fear or happiness. SlideDuring the horror movie, my heart missed a beat at every jump scare.
LampPro Tip 2/3
Not LiteralPlay
It's a metaphor; the heart doesn't actually skip a beat, it expresses a strong emotion. SlideAs the roller coaster descended, her heart missed a beat.
LampPro Tip 3/3
SuddennessPlay
Emphasizes a quick, almost instant reaction to something unexpected. SlideHis heart missed a beat when the surprise party yelled 'Surprise!'