Fibrillate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fibrillate
[ˈfɪbrɪleɪt ]
Definition
medical term
To fibrillate means to contract in an irregular and uncoordinated manner, typically referring to the heart's atria or ventricles. This chaotic movement disrupts normal blood flow, potentially leading to serious health issues such as stroke or cardiac arrest. Fibrillation can be caused by various factors, including heart disease, electrolyte imbalances, or fibrosis. Treatment often involves medical intervention, such as electrical cardioversion or medications, to restore a regular heart rhythm.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The patient's heart began to fibrillate.
- Doctors monitor for signs that the heart may fibrillate.
- Fibrillating muscles result in inefficient contraction.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Medical Definition
- Fibrillation can occur in the heart, leading to an irregular heartbeat, which may cause serious health issues.
- Atrial fibrillation is the most common type, affecting the upper chambers of the heart and often causing palpitations.
- Ventricular fibrillation is more dangerous and can lead to sudden cardiac arrest if not treated immediately.
Cultural References
- Fibrillation is often portrayed in media as a dramatic event during heart attack scenes, emphasizing urgency and danger.
- In literature, it can symbolize emotional turmoil or intense feelings due to its connotations of disarray and unrest.
Physiological Importance
- Understanding fibrillation is crucial for emergency medicine and has led to the development of CPR and defibrillators.
- Fibrillation can be a body’s response to stress, showcasing how emotions can physically affect heart function.
Scientific Studies
- Research in cardiology continues to explore the genetic factors influencing susceptibility to fibrillation.
- Studies have shown lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, can significantly impact the risk of developing fibrillation.
Origin of 'fibrillate'
Main points about word origin
- The term comes from the Latin word 'fibrilla', meaning 'small fiber'.
- In the 19th century, it began to be used in the medical field to describe muscle contractions.
- The use of the word in cardiology can be traced back to around the 1900s, reflecting advancements in understanding heart functions.
The term 'fibrillate' originates from the Latin word 'fibrilla', meaning 'small fiber'. The word itself was adapted in the medical context during the late 19th century as medical practitioners began to understand the electrical and muscular functions of the heart. The scientific understanding of the heart's mechanics paved the way for the term's use in diagnosing various cardiac irregularities. Since then, 'fibrillation' has become a key concept in cardiology, particularly relating to arrhythmias and critical care, helping to distinguish between normal rhythmic contractions and potentially life-threatening conditions.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #42,074, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.