From Latin press ( "push, hit slightly" ). 1st_ Beat , change and return to the initial state repeatedly and intermittently . 2nd_ From the previous one, feel that vibration, usually using the hand, as for the heartbeat. Also provoke it, as in a musical instrument that runs with your fingers. 3o_ By the previous one, press a button or a key. 4th_ By a relationship with the first, it is also a way of calling on the pulsar ( "pulsating star") , even if its etymology is another.