arrhythmia

noun

ar·​rhyth·​mia ā-ˈrit͟h-mē-ə 

: an alteration in rhythm of the heartbeat either in time or force

Examples of arrhythmia in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The researchers noted that one child did develop hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol) and cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat) — as the child's mother had hyperlipidemia during pregnancy — but both conditions responded to treatment. —Angelica Stabile, FOXNews.com, 25 July 2025

Potential downsides of this beverage include: Heart risks: In some, consuming too much potassium from coconut water can cause arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), which can lead to potentially fatal heart issues. —Mark Gurarie, Verywell Health, 15 July 2025

Severe cases increase the risk of dangerous arrhythmias that can be life-threatening. —Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 July 2025

This includes: Potassium overload (hyperkalemia): High potassium levels can lead to arrhythmia (irregular heartbeats) and muscle weakness. —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 8 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek arrhythmía "lack of rhythm," from árrhythmos "lacking rhythm, unrhythmical" + -ia -ia entry 1 — more at arrhythmic

First Known Use

circa 1860, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing arrhythmia

• anti-arrhythmia

Medical Definition

arrhythmia

noun

ar·​rhyth·​mia ā-ˈrit͟h-mē-ə 

: an alteration in rhythm of the heartbeat either in time or force