Wiktionary:Word of the day/2024/September 4

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heartstrings n (normally plural)

(anatomy) (historical) The tendons or other structures resembling cords once thought to be attached to, or to brace, the heart; especially the aorta, pulmonary artery, and other large arteries connected to them; also, the diaphragm. (by extension) Synonym of chordae tendineae (“the cord-like tendons that connect the papillary muscles to the tricuspid valve and the mitral valve in the heart”) (figurative) The source of one's deepest emotions or inner feelings, especially compassion or love. (archaic) The essential or vital part of something; the core, the essence, the heart. Today is the eve of the International Day of Charity, which is recognized by the United Nations to emphasize the importance of charity and philanthropy. The Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun Mother Teresa, known for her charitable works in India, died on 5 September 1997.

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