palpitation

noun

pal·​pi·​ta·​tion ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce palpitation (audio)
Synonyms of palpitationnext
: a rapid pulsation
especially : an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (such as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)

Examples of palpitation in a Sentence

a palpitation of the blood vessels
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.
According to the American Heart Association, common symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain or pressure, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, and irregular heart rhythms. Manahil Ahmad, The Providence Journal, 25 Jan. 2026 If a person starts to experience warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath, a racing heart or palpitations, those should not be ignored. Amy McGorry, FOXNews.com, 23 Jan. 2026 Common symptoms of a cardiac event, like a heart attack, include chest pain or pressure, lightheadedness, heart palpitations and irregular heart rhythms, according to the AHA. Isa Almeida, Oklahoman, 23 Jan. 2026 Common symptoms of a cardiac event, like a heart attack, include chest pain or pressure, lightheadedness, heart palpitations and irregular heart rhythms, according to the AHA. Greta Cross, USA Today, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for palpitation

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of palpitation was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Palpitation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/palpitation. Accessed 6 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

palpitation

noun
pal·​pi·​ta·​tion
ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən
: an act or instance of palpitating
especially : an abnormally rapid beating of the heart

Medical Definition

palpitation

noun
pal·​pi·​ta·​tion ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce palpitation (audio)
: a rapid pulsation
especially : an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)

More from Merriam-Webster on palpitation

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