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

Two to four cups was tied to a lower risk of heart disease, heart failure, and stroke. — Jim Edwards, Fortune, 23 July 2026

Drinking 2-4 cups of caffeinated coffee may reduce the risk of developing a heart attack, stroke or heart failure but greater than 4 cups increases the risk of heart failure. — Robert Glatter, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

It’s also associated with a lower likelihood of developing a long list of conditions, including heart disease, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes. — Anahad O’Connor, Washington Post, 21 July 2026

However, drinking more than 4 cups of caffeinated coffee a day may increase the risk of heart failure. — Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 20 July 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