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Definition of palpitate

palpitate

/ˈpæl.pɪ.teɪt/
pal · pi · tate
Adjective:palpitant
•
Past Simple:palpitated
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Past Participle:palpitated
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Present Participle:palpitating
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palpitate Lexical Profile

palpitate Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To beat rapidly, strongly, or irregularly (of the heart).

Example

"Climbing the steep stone stairs in the summer heat made his heart palpitate."

2

To shake, quiver, or tremble slightly, especially from strong emotion, excitement, or physical exertion.

Example

"The small bird lay in her cupped hands, its chest palpitating with fear."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for palpitate

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'palpitate' (an intransitive verb meaning to beat rapidly or tremble) with 'palpate' (a transitive medical verb meaning to examine a part of the body by touch).

• Nearby Words

palouse falls
palpable
palpably
palpitate
palpitation
palsied
palsy

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from Latin 'palpitatus', the past participle of 'palpitare' (to throb, pant, or flutter), a frequentative form of 'palpare' (to touch softly or stroke).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Palpitate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/palpitate
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