Palpitating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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palpitating

[หˆpรฆl.pษช.teษช.tษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

physical sensation

Palpitating refers to a rapid or strong heartbeat that may be perceived as an uncomfortable or alarming sensation. It is often associated with emotions like excitement, anxiety, or physical exertion.

Synonyms

fluttering, pounding, throbbing.

Examples of usage

  • She felt a palpitating heart as she walked on stage.
  • His palpitating pulse was a clear sign of his anxiety.
  • After the workout, I noticed my heart was palpitating.
  • The thought of the surprise made her heart start palpitating.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Palpitations can occur when adrenaline is released, increasing heart rate during stress or excitement.
  • Certain conditions like dehydration, anemia, or excessive caffeine can lead to palpitating feelings in the chest.

Psychology

  • Palpitations are often linked with anxiety disorders, where the body reacts to stress with rapid heartbeats.
  • Mindfulness and breathing exercises can help calm palpitating hearts during anxious moments.

Music

  • The term can describe rhythmic beats in music that evoke feelings of excitement, mirroring the body's responses.
  • Composers often use 'palpitating' melodies to create a sense of urgency or passion in their pieces.

Pop Culture

  • In films and literature, characters often describe palpitating hearts to express intense emotions like love or fear.
  • Songs frequently use the imagery of a palpitating heart to depict romantic excitement or heartbreak.

Origin of 'palpitating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'palpitare,' which means 'to tremble' or 'to flutter.'
  • In the 16th century, 'palpitating' entered the English language to describe fast heartbeats.

The word 'palpitating' comes from the Latin word 'palpitare', meaning 'to throb' or 'to flutter'. It is derived from the verb 'palpare', meaning 'to touch or stroke', which reflects the physical sensation associated with a rapid heartbeat. The term began to be used in English in the 17th century and has since evolved to describe not just the physical act of the heart beating, but also metaphorically to describe feelings of nervousness or strong emotion. It has notable medical connotations as well, often used in discussions about heart health and arrhythmias.


Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,677 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.