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

Acute instances of dental fear elicit intense psychological and physical reactions such as anxiety, sweating, heart palpitations, dizziness, nausea, and even dissociation. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 Oct. 2025

The suit claims the exposure caused lasting health effects, including tremors, heart palpitations and memory issues. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 26 Sep. 2025

Drinking too much caffeine can show up as fatigue, jitters, headaches, heart palpitations, and more. —Laura Schober, Health, 16 Sep. 2025

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

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)