pressure

Definition

Pressure in the context of Anatomy and Physiology is the force exerted by a substance that is in contact with another substance. In the human body, it often refers to the force blood exerts against the walls of blood vessels.

Analogy

Imagine a water hose; when you cover part of its opening with your thumb, water shoots out further and with more force. This is similar to blood pressure, where the heart pumps blood through narrow arteries, creating pressure necessary for blood flow throughout the body.

Related terms