1483, from M.Fr. palpitation, from L. palpitationem (nom. palpitatio), from palpitare "to throb, to flutter," freq. of palpare "touch gently, stroke" (see feel (v.)). Verb palpitate is first recorded 1623.
Main Entry: pal·pi·ta·tion Pronunciation: "pal-p&-'tA-sh&n Function: noun : a rapid pulsation; especially: anabnormally rapid beating of the heart when excited by violent exertion, strong emotion, or disease
palpitation pal·pi·ta·tion (pāl'pĭ-tā'shən) n. Perceptible forcible pulsation of the heart, usually with an increase in frequency or force, with or without irregularity in rhythm.