Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Characterized by a slight, rapid, and often irregular trembling or quivering motion. This describes something, typically a part of a living body like the heart, that is beating or moving quickly and noticeably, often due to excitement, fear, or illness. It implies a fluttering, throbbing sensation.

Usage

The adjective palpitating is used to describe a noun, most commonly a bodily organ or a feeling associated with such a motion. It often conveys a sense of nervousness, anxiety, intense emotion, or physical exertion.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • She placed a hand on her palpitating heart after running up the stairs.
  • The suspense of the movie left me with a palpitating feeling in my chest.
  • He waited with palpitating anxiety for the exam results.

Advanced Usage

• "Palpitating with...": This construction is used to indicate the cause of the rapid, trembling motion.
  • She was palpitating with fear as she heard the strange noise.
  • The audience was palpitating with excitement before the concert.

Variants and Related Words

• Palpitate (verb): To beat rapidly and strongly; to throb.
• Palpitation (noun): A condition in which the heart beats rapidly and irregularly.
• Palpitant (adjective): A less common synonym for .

Synonyms

• Fluttering: Moving with a light, quick, irregular motion.
• Throbbing: Beating with a strong, regular rhythm, often painfully or noticeably.
• Pounding: Beating heavily and forcefully.
• Quivering: Shaking with a slight, rapid motion.

Antonyms

• Steady: Firmly fixed, supported, or balanced; not shaking or moving.
• Calm: Not showing or feeling nervousness, anger, or other strong emotions.
• Still: Not moving or making a sound.

Adjective

1. having a slight and rapid trembling motion
   • palpitant movements rather than violent eruptions
   • my palpitating heart