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palpitation
noun
pal·pi·ta·tion
ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən
: a rapid pulsation
especially
: an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (such as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)
Examples of palpitation in a Sentence
a palpitation of the blood vessels
Recent Examples on the Web
Ginkgo biloba supplements interact with certain medications, like blood thinners, and may cause side effects, including headache, stomach upset, dizziness, palpitations, constipation, and allergic skin reactions.
—Sarah Anzlovar, Ms, Rd, Verywell Health, 10 Jan. 2025
Low magnesium may cause palpitations, which feel like a fluttering, racing, or pounding sensation in the chest cavity.20
Heart palpitations may also happen alongside shortness of breath, anxiety, and dizziness.
—Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, Rdn, Health, 23 Dec. 2024
Common symptoms include severe fatigue, lightheadedness, excessive sweating, nausea, and heart palpitations.
—Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 26 Oct. 2024
Due to the pregnant person's changing body, heart palpitations can increase during pregnancy.
—Patty Weasler, Rn, Bsn, Verywell Health, 3 Jan. 2025
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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
Dictionary Entries Near palpitation
Cite this Entry
“Palpitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/palpitation. Accessed 29 Jan. 2025.
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
: 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
Britannica English: Translation of palpitation for Arabic Speakers
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