ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cardio

n. uncountable
Definition

n. physical exercise that makes your heart beat faster to help you get fit and lose weight. It is short for 'cardiovascular' exercise.

n. any form of aerobic exercise that increases the heart rate and improves the efficiency of the circulatory system. Often a clipping of the term 'cardiovascular exercise' or 'cardiography'.


SIMPLE

I try to do thirty minutes of cardio every morning.

CONTEXTUAL

The trainer recommended doing some cardio before lifting weights to get the blood flowing and warm up the muscles.

COMPLEX

While high-intensity interval training is efficient, many athletes still incorporate steady-state cardio to build a solid aerobic foundation and improve recovery times between sessions.

Usage

Commonly functions as an attributive noun in phrases like 'cardio workout' or 'cardio machine'.

Last updated July 27, 2026