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.
Other side effects from quitting lorazepam cold turkey can include headache, sweating, tremors, increased blood pressure, heart palpitations, and stomach symptoms. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 19 Mar. 2025 When to seek medical attention Patients who notice persistent chest pain and palpitations after a viral illness should consider ruling out myocarditis, which is inflammation of the heart muscle, according to Contreras. — Amy McGorry, Fox News, 1 Feb. 2025 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 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

palpitatingly
palpitation
palpless
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Cite this Entry

“Palpitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/palpitation. Accessed 26 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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