pacemaker

noun

pace·​mak·​er ˈpās-ˌmā-kər 

1

a

: one that sets the pace for another

b

: one that takes the lead or sets an example

2

a

: a group of cells or a body part (such as the sinus node of the heart) that serves to establish and maintain a rhythmic activity

b

: an electrical device for stimulating or steadying the heartbeat or reestablishing the rhythm of an arrested heart

pacemaking

ˈpās-ˌmā-kiŋ 

noun

Synonyms

• bellwether
• leader
• pacer
• pacesetter
• trendsetter

Examples of pacemaker in a Sentence

has long been regarded as a pacemaker in home electronics

Recent Examples on the Web

Keep in mind, though, neither device should be used by people who have implanted electrical medical devices such as pacemakers, or who are subject to seizures. —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 10 Jan. 2025

A week after being admitted for dehydration, Netanyahu's doctors implanted a pacemaker to regulate his heart rate and rhythm. —Anders Hagstrom, Fox News, 5 Jan. 2025

In 2017, for example, the FDA issued a cybersecurity recall on pacemakers. —Christian Espinosa, Forbes, 23 Dec. 2024

Most healthcare facilities now support an array of pacemakers, infusion pumps and communication devices, all connected to cell phones or the Internet. —Jason Sabin, Forbes, 2 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

pacemaker

noun

pace·​mak·​er ˈpā-ˌsmā-kər 

1

: a group of cells or a bodily part (as of the heart) that serves to establish and maintain a rhythmic bodily activity

2

: an electrical device for steadying or establishing the heartbeat

Medical Definition

pacemaker

noun

pace·​mak·​er ˈpā-ˌsmā-kər 

1

: a group of cells or a body part (as the sinoatrial node of the heart) that serves to establish and maintain a rhythmic activity

2

: an electrical device for stimulating or steadying the heartbeat or reestablishing the rhythm of an arrested heart

called also pacer