HealthAugust 16, 2026
echocardiogram
EK-oh-KAR-dee-uh-gram
Definition
A medical diagnostic test that uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart's structure and function.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek 'echo' (sound) and 'kardia' (heart) combined with the Greek 'gramma' (something written or drawn). It was coined in the mid-20th century to describe the graphic record produced by ultrasound imaging of the heart.
In the news
The article uses the term to contrast the limited diagnostic power of a smartwatch's single-lead ECG with the comprehensive clinical assessment provided by a professional echocardiogram.
Your wearables can track your heartbeat, sleep and even ECG — but can they really predict disease?
Read the full article ↗Firstpost