Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SYS'TO-LE, or SYS'TO-LY, n. [Gr. συστολη, from συστελλω, to contract; συν and στελλω, to send.]

1. In grammar, the shortening of a long syllable.
2. In anatomy, the contraction of the heart and arteries, for expelling the blood, and carrying on the circulation. [See Diastole.]