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 of palpitation

• pulse
• throb

Examples of palpitation in a Sentence

a palpitation of the blood vessels

Recent Examples on the Web

People who develop racing heartbeats, tremors, anxiety, insomnia, reflux, headaches or reproducible palpitations after drinking coffee should not ignore those symptoms simply because population studies are reassuring. — Robert Glatter, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026

As Lyme disease progresses, a patient can get severe headaches; Bell’s Palsy, involving loss of muscle tone or droop in one or both sides of the face; severe arthritis; heart palpitations; and episodes of dizziness or shortness of breath. — Amanda Roome, The Conversation, 16 July 2026

This can lead to illnesses such as bronchitis or aggravate existing chronic heart and lung diseases, triggering heart palpitations, asthma attacks, heart attacks, and strokes, particularly for more sensitive populations. — Kristi Miller, Twin Cities, 14 July 2026

Duell said the constant stress of caring for her child has led to numerous health problems, including gut pain and heart palpitations. — O. Rose Broderick, STAT, 13 July 2026

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)