palpitation

noun

pal·​pi·​ta·​tion ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce palpitation (audio)
Synonyms of palpitationnext
: a rapid pulsation
especially : an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (such as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)

Synonyms

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Examples of palpitation in a Sentence

a palpitation of the blood vessels
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Its symptoms include chills, dizziness and light-headedness, excessive sweating, heart palpitations, nausea, shortness of breath, trembling or shaking, and upset stomach or indigestion. — Dan Perry, Newsweek, 28 Feb. 2025 Common symptoms of an iron deficiency include fatigue, headaches, shortness of breath, a noticeable dip in immunity, and heart palpitations—all of which can feel scary in the moment. — Ranyechi Udemezue, Vogue, 16 Feb. 2025 Garza says that while she’s had palpitations in the past, she was never diagnosed with a heart condition. — Cara Lynn Shultz, People.com, 3 Feb. 2025 This includes symptoms such as anxiety, cold sweats, headaches and heart palpitations. — Jessica Hartshorn, Flow Space, 25 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for palpitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of palpitation was in the 15th century

Rhymes for palpitation

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Browse Nearby Words

palpitation
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Cite this Entry

“Palpitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/palpitation. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

palpitation

noun
pal·​pi·​ta·​tion
ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən
: an act or instance of palpitating
especially : an abnormally rapid beating of the heart

Medical Definition

palpitation

noun
pal·​pi·​ta·​tion ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce palpitation (audio)
: a rapid pulsation
especially : an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)

More from Merriam-Webster on palpitation

Nglish: Translation of palpitation for Spanish Speakers

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