Throb/θrɑːb/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Physical Sensation Used to describe physically felt pulses, often related to pain or heartbeats. After the run, his temples began to throb. Pro Tip 2/3Emotional Response May indicate an intense emotional reaction manifesting physically. Her pulse started to throb with anger. Pro Tip 3/3Intensity The word 'throb' implies a strong or intense sensation that is hard to ignore. He felt a deep throb in his swollen ankle.