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

People with heart disease: Symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath or unusual fatigue may indicate a serious problem. —Hannah Kirby, jsonline.com, 11 Aug. 2025

Additionally, some people are also more sensitive to caffeine, for example, experiencing mild jitters and anxiety or more serious conditions in some, such as heart palpitations, high blood pressure, and sleep disturbances. —Sara Novak, Discover Magazine, 2 Aug. 2025

While magnesium is an essential electrolyte that supports normal heart function, excess magnesium could lead to symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, low blood pressure, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest.34 3. —Abby Norman, Verywell Health, 13 June 2025

Key symptoms to watch for include: Coughing Shortness of breath Throat irritation Unusual fatigue Chest discomfort Heart palpitations People with asthma were advised to follow their asthma action plans and keep quick-relief inhalers readily available. —Anna Skinner, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 July 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)