arrhythmia

noun

ar·​rhyth·​mia ā-ˈrit͟h-mē-ə How to pronounce arrhythmia (audio)
: an alteration in rhythm of the heartbeat either in time or force

Examples of arrhythmia in a Sentence

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.
Your Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Increase Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine, which can lead to issues with heart function and the cardiovascular system, including heart palpitations and arrhythmias. Angelica Bottaro, Verywell Health, 25 June 2025 Although many have heard of heart disease, which affects the heart’s function, some aren’t aware of the number of various diseases like coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias that are related. Dominique Fluker, Essence, 12 June 2025 Holes that had developed in the valve were causing blood to leak into other chambers, and unchecked would almost certainly lead to an array of problems, from breathing issues to arrhythmia to congestive heart failure. Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 6 June 2025 The app detects arrhythmias and irregular heartbeats, early signs of heart failure, indicators of coronary artery disease and heart valve abnormalities. Ramsha Waseem, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for arrhythmia

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek arrhythmía "lack of rhythm," from árrhythmos "lacking rhythm, unrhythmical" + -ia -ia entry 1 — more at arrhythmic

First Known Use

circa 1860, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of arrhythmia was circa 1860

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Cite this Entry

“Arrhythmia.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arrhythmia. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

Medical Definition

arrhythmia

noun
ar·​rhyth·​mia ā-ˈrit͟h-mē-ə How to pronounce arrhythmia (audio)
: an alteration in rhythm of the heartbeat either in time or force

More from Merriam-Webster on arrhythmia

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