unstable angina

noun

: angina pectoris characterized by sudden changes (such as an increase in the severity or length of anginal attacks or a decrease in the exertion required to precipitate an attack) especially when symptoms were previously stable

Examples of unstable angina in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Individuals with certain heart conditions, such as unstable angina or recent heart attack, should avoid using these medications. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 13 Oct. 2023 The cardiovascular risks that appear to be linked to Ground Zero exposure include heart attack, stroke, unstable angina, coronary artery surgery and angioplasty. NBC News, 6 Sep. 2019 That includes people who've recently had a heart attack or have unstable angina (chest pain that arises even at rest), and older people prone to low blood pressure. Amy Norton, chicagotribune.com, 9 May 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'unstable angina.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1972, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of unstable angina was in 1972

Dictionary Entries Near unstable angina

Cite this Entry

“Unstable angina.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/unstable%20angina. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

unstable angina

noun
: angina pectoris characterized by sudden changes (as an increase in the severity or length of anginal attacks or a decrease in the exertion required to precipitate an attack) especially when symptoms were previously stable
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!