heart failure

noun

1

: a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood at an adequate rate or in adequate volume

2

: cessation of heartbeat : death

Examples of heart failure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Another transport official died of supposedly acute heart failure the same day. — Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 22 Oct. 2026

People with heart failure may need to restrict fluids as recommended by a healthcare provider. — Megan Nunn, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2026

In addition to low blood oxygen levels and low blood pressure, a pulmonary embolism can affect the heart, causing a fast or irregular heart rate, right-sided heart failure or sudden cardiac arrest. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 2026

To diagnose heart failure, doctors often check blood levels of a hormone called BNP, which the heart releases under strain. — Amiran Baduashvili, The Conversation, 12 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

heart failure

noun

1

: a condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood at an adequate rate or in adequate volume compare angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, coronary failure, heart attack

2

: cessation of heartbeat : death