palpitation

noun

pal·​pi·​ta·​tion ˌpal-pə-ˈtā-shən 

: a rapid pulsation

especially : an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (such as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)

Synonyms

• pulse
• throb

Examples of palpitation in a Sentence

a palpitation of the blood vessels

Recent Examples on the Web

In a recent study by Climate Rights International, workers spoke of experiencing excessive sweating, headaches, fever, nausea, heat palpitations, dehydration and temporary vision loss. —Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 10 Sep. 2025

Mr Lai had been suffering from heart palpitations and fatigue. —Dr. Ewelina U. Ochab, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2025

Anderson-Haynes notes that a magnesium deficiency (also known as hypomagnesemia) can result in a range of symptoms, such as headaches, nausea, constipation, tremors, heart palpitations, and muscle soreness. —Boutayna Chokrane, Wired News, 1 Sep. 2025

His lawyers told the court that Lai had been experiencing palpitations and episodes of light-headedness, prompting judges to adjourn the hearing to get his prescribed medications and a heart monitor. —Chris Lau, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for palpitation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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 

: a rapid pulsation

especially : an abnormally rapid or irregular beating of the heart (as that caused by panic, arrhythmia, or strenuous physical exercise)