The word "fibrillation" is spelled with five syllables: fi·bri·l·la·tion. The first syllable starts with the "f" sound, followed by the "ai" diphthong (pronounced like the "i" in "eye"). The second syllable has the "b" and "r" sounds, followed by the short "i" sound. The third syllable starts with the "l" sound and has the schwa (ə) sound before the long "a" sound (pronounced like the "a" in "father"). The fourth and fifth syllables both end with the "shun" sound (pronounced like "shun").
Fibrillation refers to an abnormal and erratic contraction or twitching of the individual muscle fibers within a tissue or organ, resulting in a rapid and irregular quivering or trembling motion. This term is most commonly associated with cardiac fibrillation, which refers to the uncoordinated contractions of the heart muscles, specifically the atria (atrial fibrillation) or the ventricles (ventricular fibrillation).
Atrial fibrillation occurs when the upper chambers of the heart, known as the atria, contract in a disorganized manner, leading to an irregular heartbeat. In this condition, the electrical signals that regulate the heart rhythm become chaotic, causing the atria to quiver rather than contract properly. Ventricular fibrillation, on the other hand, affects the lower chambers of the heart, the ventricles, and is a life-threatening condition that can lead to cardiac arrest.
Fibrillation can also occur in other muscle tissues, such as skeletal muscles, as a result of nerve damage or certain medical conditions. Skeletal muscle fibrillation often manifests as involuntary muscle twitches or spasms.
In summary, fibrillation is an abnormal quivering or trembling motion of muscle fibers within a tissue or organ. While most commonly associated with irregular contractions of the heart muscles, it can also occur in skeletal muscles due to nerve damage or underlying medical conditions.
1. The condition of being fibrillated. 2. The formation of fibrils.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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The word "fibrillation" originated from the Latin word "fibra" meaning "fiber" and the suffix "-atio" which denotes an action or condition. Therefore, "fibrillation" literally means "condition of fibers". This term is primarily used in medical contexts to describe an abnormal rapid and irregular contraction of muscle fibers, especially in the heart muscles.