The word "palpitate" is spelled with the letters P-A-L-P-I-T-A-T-E. Its phonetic transcription is /ˈpælpɪteɪt/. The initial P and medial L are pronounced with a "p" and "l" sound respectively. The "a" is pronounced with a short vowel sound. The following "l" and "p" are pronounced with a flap sound. The final syllable "-ate" is pronounced with a long "a" sound and a "t" sound. The word means to have a rapid or irregular heartbeat, usually caused by excitement, anxiety, or illness.
Palpitate is a verb that refers to the action of having a rapid, irregular, or pounding heart rate. When one's heart palpitates, it beats unusually fast, sometimes accompanied by a noticeable pulsation or trembling sensation in the chest. This condition may occur due to various factors, such as anxiety, stress, physical exertion, or underlying heart conditions.
The term is commonly associated with feelings of excitement, nervousness, or fear. For instance, when someone is in a highly suspenseful situation like waiting for important news or anticipating an important event, they may experience palpitations as a result of heightened emotions. In these cases, the heart often feels as though it is racing or fluttering, often causing discomfort or distress.
Furthermore, palpitation can also be used metaphorically to describe objects, such as an object that is vibrating or throbbing rapidly. For example, during an earthquake, a building may palpitate under the force of the tremors.
In summary, palpitate is a verb that relates to an abnormal and rapid heart rate often associated with emotional states like excitement or anxiety. It can also be used metaphorically to describe intense vibrations or throbbing sensations in objects.
To beat violently, as the heart after an unusual amount of running or bodily exertion; to flutter, pant, or throb.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "palpitate" originated from the Latin verb "palpitare", which means "to throb, to beat rapidly". This Latin word itself is derived from "palpare", meaning "to touch gently, to stroke". The term "palpitate" entered the English language in the early 17th century, retaining its original sense of a rapid, irregular or forceful beating or throbbing, especially relating to the heart.