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
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.
Common causes of shortness of breath include physical deconditioning, obesity, anxiety, asthma, heart failure, heart attack, COPD, and pneumonia. Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 28 Oct. 2025 Carlin died in 2008 at age 71 from heart failure. Victoria Edel, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025 Disruptions in this microcirculation, whether in structure or function, can lead to serious conditions like heart failure, kidney failure, and chronic diseases. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 28 Oct. 2025 Women faced greater odds for heart failure and coronary artery disease, while younger people were more affected by heart failure and A-fib. Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for heart failure

Word History

First Known Use

1574, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of heart failure was in 1574

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Cite this Entry

“Heart failure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heart%20failure. Accessed 31 Oct. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on heart failure

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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